Confusion as Explosion Rocks Ibadan

Confusion enveloped parts of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, late yesterday over an explosion that shook the city.

The explosion happened in Bodija and reportedly led to loss of lives and property,, but the powerful explosion was heard in Agbowo, Eleyele, Orogun, Oke Itunu, Omi Adio, Apete, University College Hospital (UCH), Mokola and Idi Isin.

While details were still sketchy last night, social media users shared videos and pictures of large-scale destruction affecting filling stations, malls, fast food outlets and residential buildings.

The exact location of the explosion had not yet been ascertained; however, the UCH School of Nursing, where hostel windows were shattered by shockwaves, was one of the areas most affected by the explosion.

In the meantime, the Oyo State government has implored citizens to be calm and rest assured that their interests were being looked after.

A statement by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, said Governor Seyi Makinde, had deployed security operatives to the affected areas.

The statement read: "Residents of Ibadan and immediate environs 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. Government has deployed all that is required to mitigate the unfortunate incident.

"All security service chiefs, including paramilitary chiefs and fire operatives have been deployed by the governor to rein in the spillover from the explosion.

"His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde therefore implores citizens to calm down and rest assured that their interests are being looked after."