Ibadan Explosion: Five Unanswered Questions Nigerians Are Asking
An explosion that occurred in Bodija, Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, resulted in two fatalities, the destruction of several buildings and cars, and numerous reported injuries.
Speaking at the site of the explosion, the State Governor, Seyi Makinde, said the incident happened as a result of the activities of illegal miners.
“From what we’ve gathered so far, the likelihood is that you have illegal miners coming with explosions around this area,” Makinde told newsmen. He also noted that explosive devices stored by the miners caused the blast.
However, some Nigerians seem dissatisfied and are raising questions. As investigation continues, here are five questions Nigerians are asking.
1) Who Are the Illegal Miners?
Just less than seven hours after the explosion, Makinde stated that it occurred as a result of stored explosives by illegal miners. However, the identity of these illegal miners has not yet been revealed.
2) What Were They Mining?
Although many still question if the explosion was caused by miners, others inquire about the solid mineral the illegal miners intended to extract. Oyo State is home to Lithium, Dolomite, Gemstones, and rubellite, and is regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading producers of solid minerals.
3) Why Were the Miners in Possession of Powerful Explosives?
Various footage and pictures showed that the explosion caused devastating damage to buildings and cars over a large span of land. While mining explosives like ANFO (ammonium nitrate/fuel oil) and dynamite can cause significant damage, it is usually required to be stored in large quantities or confined within a tight borehole or tunnel.
4) Is DSS and Other Security Agencies Aware of the Mining Explosives?
The Department of State Services (DSS), responsible for internal security, is tasked with screening and approving all requests pertaining to the use of explosives in Nigeria. Were they aware of this explosive depot in Ibadan?
5) Is the Government Aware of Illegal Miners in the State?
In November 2023, the State Government sealed mining sites operating without consent letters and community development agreements. However, illegal extraction of solid mineral resources remains a major challenge not only in the state but across the country. Some Nigerians argue that the government is not doing enough to address illegal mining.
