Alhaji Daud Akinola, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta States, has called on the Federal Government to provide immediate assistance through the Oyo State Government to the victims of the explosion that occurred at Dejo Oyelese Street, Bodija, Ibadan. The tragic incident took place on Tuesday night, resulting in the loss of five lives, injuries to 77 people, and severe damage to 58 houses in the Adeyi area of Old Bodija.
Expressing his concerns at the blast site on Friday, Akinola urged the Federal Government, particularly President Bola Tinubu, to extend support to the victims through Governor Makinde. He emphasized the need for swift assistance to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the explosion.
Akinola also strongly criticized the alleged involvement of foreigners in the incident and called for a thorough investigation into the activities of illegal miners who reportedly stored explosive materials in a residential estate.
In his appeal, Akinola stated, “This is devastating. I, therefore, want to passionately appeal to the Federal Government and our dear President, Senator Bola Tinubu, to please, come to the aid of these people, I mean the victims.” He further emphasized the importance of preventing a recurrence of such a tragic situation in Ibadan, Oyo State, and the entire nation.
Acknowledging the prompt response of Governor Seyi Makinde when the explosion occurred, Akinola expressed gratitude for the governor’s actions. Other notable personalities accompanying Akinola during his visit included Alhaja Sidikat Aderibigbe (Iyalaje Adeen of Yorubaland), Alhaji Mutiu Onimalu (Asiwaju Adeen of Oyo State), Chief Nureni Akanbi (Babasale Musulumi of Ibadanland), Chief Bayo Oyero (State Chairman, Muslim Community), Alhaji Yekeen Abass (Babaloja General), and various other Muslim leaders.