Massive explosion wreaks havoc in Nigeria, dozens of buildings blown up, three killed, 77 injured
At least three people have died after more than a dozen buildings collapsed in a massive explosion in Nigeria’s Oyo state. More than 77 people have also been injured in the accident. The explosion occurred in Ibadan, 130 km from Nigeria’s commercial capital Lagos. After the explosion, debris of buildings is spread all around, due to which rescue workers are searching for trapped people. More people may be trapped under the debris of the buildings. In such a situation, there is a possibility of the death toll increasing. Oyo Governor Seyi Mokinde has said that the explosion occurred on Tuesday night in Ibadan, a densely populated city of Oyo. After which relief and rescue work is being done rapidly.
Officials who visited the spot in Ibadan said after preliminary investigation that it seems explosives were stored here for illegal mining, due to which the blast occurred for some reason. As a result of which such a huge devastation has occurred. The Oyo governor described the damage caused by the blast as devastating, saying all relevant agencies have been deployed for rescue operations. He said that most of the 77 people injured in the blast who were admitted to the hospital were discharged on Wednesday. The governor has also promised free treatment to the injured and temporary accommodation to those whose houses have collapsed.
Illegal mining is a big problem in Nigeria
Nigeria is a mineral-rich country, where illegal mining is common and has been a matter of concern for the authorities. This is mostly done in remote areas but for this explosives and other items are often kept in populated areas. It is still not clear who had collected such a large amount of explosive materials in Bodija area of Ibadan. Local officials have said that no one has been arrested yet. At present the investigation is going on and whoever is found guilty will be given severe punishment.
