The ancient city of Ibadan, Oyo state capital, has been thrown into panic and confusion following an explosion that occurred on Tuesday evening.
A loud bang was heard and vibration was felt across several locations in Ibadan at about 7:45 p.m.
Rescue operation is still ongoing at the site of an explosion that occurred at Adeyi Avenue, Bodija Estate, Ibadan.
According to residents, it has caused damages at multiple locations as the cause of the sound was not yet clear.
Two people have been reported to have dead and properties destroyed in the Sango Area of Ibadan
Videos obtained by DAILY GIST showed people running for safety few minutes after the explosion took place.
The explosion was heard in Bodija, Apete, Ojoo, UI, Moniya, Awotan, Alaro/Poly Ibadan, and Jeje, among other areas.
Many residents said they felt their house shake and some said their windows were damaged.
The cause of the explosion was yet to be ascertained as at the time of publishing report.
Damages were observed at multiple locations,
including at homes, and part of the ceiling collapse Ace Mall, Bodija, Ibadan.
Seismologists said there were no reports of an
earthquake in the area as rumors on social media about an incident at a gas station is yet to be confirmed.
OYO GOVT CALLS FOR CALM
In a statement issued by Prince Dotun Oyelade, commissioner for Information and orientation, the state government urged residents to remain calm as security service chiefs including para military chiefs and Fire Operatives have been deployed by the governor to reign in the spillover from the explosion.
There are various interpretations of the incident but it is important for us to state categorically that the state government has taken over and in the full control of the unfortunate occurrence in in order to mitigate the incident.
The statement read “Residents of Ibadan and immediate environ experienced an uncommon explosion about 8pm this evening.
“There are various interpretations of the incident but it is important for us to state categorically that the state government has taken over and in the full control of the unfortunate occurrence in in order to mitigate the incident.
“All security service chiefs including para military chiefs and Fire Operatives have been deployed by the governor to Reign in the spillover from the explosion.
His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde therefore implores citizens to calm down and be rest assured that their interests are being looked after.”
