Our Losses By Ibadan Explosion Cannot Be Quantified, SAN, Ex Deputy Governor, Others Cry Out
The victims of the explosion that ravaged a part of the Bodija area in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, have described their losses as not quantifiable.
On Tuesday night, the explosion was felt in the Agbowo, Sango, Orogun, and Bodija areas of the city, which led to deaths, injuries, and the destruction of houses and other property.
The incident was caused by explosives stored by illegal miners occupying a house in the Bodija area of the city, according to the state governor, Mr Seyi Makinde.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) also confirmed that over 20 houses and places of residence were affected in the incident.
Niyi Akintola SAN’s hotel was destroyed by the Ibadan blast. He wrote:
This is what remains of my modest contributions to hospitality businesses in Ibadaland just after the explosions of last night in Bodija. It is a posh hotel in a posh area known as ‘House 40’ on Dejo Oyelese Street . Bodiam.
I recalled that some of our colleagues on this platform who had at one time enjoyed the hospitality of the modest 24 beds which include 8 suites, 3 chalets and 13 standard rooms are Alariwo, Wole Iyamu SAN, H,E. Iyiola Oladokun (whose residence) that shared a fence with my house 40 was completely destroyed.
Other members of the Bar whose properties were destroyed on the street include the Late Chief Bola Ige SAN, the late Chief Bandele Aiku SAN, and an hospitality building said to belong to the late Governor of Ondo state, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN..
My 3 other properties on Alabiamo Street, Adeyi Street, and Adenuga Street were also slightly damaged with removed roof, removed POP ceilings, sliding doors, air-conditionals, and several electrical applications.
Oh my God, it is terrible. As I write this with my hands trembling, some guests and 3 hotel staff are in the hospital, but we thank God that no casuality was recorded. What a way to start a new year? I need your prayers, please.
NIYI AKINTOLA SAN
