Ibadan Explosion: Federal Government Awaits Forensic Findings

• Minister Dele Alake emphasizes the importance of awaiting forensic investigation results into the Ibadan explosion before determining government actions
• Alake assures Nigerians of the commitment to take appropriate measures based on investigation findings to prevent future occurrences

Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has revealed that the Federal Government is anticipating the results of a forensic investigation into the Ibadan explosion that occurred on January 16 before deciding on its course of action.

The tragic incident claimed the lives of at least five individuals, left 77 injured, and caused damage to 58 buildings.

In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, on Sunday in Abuja, Alake emphasized the significance of the investigation in uncovering the root cause of the explosion. He stressed that the findings would provide crucial insights guiding the Federal Government’s subsequent actions.

“The Federal Government is currently awaiting the outcome of forensic investigations, aiming to determine the actual cause of the blast, the type of explosives involved, and the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event that resulted in loss of lives and property,” Alake stated.

Having directed Mine Inspectorate Officers to collaborate with the Oyo State Government on January 17, Alake assured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to taking appropriate measures based on the investigation’s results. The Mine Inspectorate Officers have joined other security agencies on-site to contribute to the ongoing investigations.

Alake urged the public to allow security agencies and relevant officials to carry out their duties, emphasizing that waiting for the investigation’s outcome was essential in avoiding speculations stemming from a lack of necessary information.

Highlighting the preventive aspect, Alake affirmed that the investigation aimed not only to understand the explosion but also to prevent its recurrence and bring the responsible parties to justice.

In a related development, President Bola Tinubu, on January 17, established an inter-ministerial committee addressing insecurity hindering the growth of Nigeria’s natural resources. This committee is tasked with formulating a blueprint to enhance the security of the country’s natural resources.