Bodija explosion: Makinde receives relief fund committee report, pledges swift implementation

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has received the report from the committee overseeing the disbursement of relief funds to victims of the Bodija explosion, which occurred in January 2024.

The explosion, which took place in a private residence in the Adeyi area of Bodija, Ibadan, on 16 January 2024, resulted in loss of lives and extensive property damage. Investigations linked the incident to the illegal storage of explosive materials.

In response, the state government established a 10-member committee on 24 December 2024 to manage the distribution of relief funds for those affected within a 14-kilometre radius.

While receiving the report in Ibadan, Governor Makinde—represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal—promised that the recommendations would be reviewed and implemented without delay.

“This report will be acted upon swiftly to bring relief to victims,” he assured.

He noted that the government had taken several emergency response measures since the explosion and had thoroughly investigated its root cause.

“No one anticipated that such extensive damage could occur in a highbrow area like Bodija. This underscores the importance of prioritising security in our environment,” he said.

The governor emphasised that timely implementation of the report’s recommendations was crucial, stating, “We cannot afford further delays. We will take all necessary steps to ensure that victims receive the support they need as soon as possible.”

Presenting the report, committee member Fatai Owoseni, who represented the chairman, explained that it consisted of four volumes.

Owoseni, who also serves as the governor’s Special Adviser on Security, said the report outlined detailed recommendations for the fair distribution and proper management of the relief fund.