Ibadan Explosion: House of Reps to review mining activities in residential areas

By Precious Oham

The House of Representatives said it will mandate its relevant committees to review the activities of miners in residential areas with a view of taking decisions that will keep Nigerians safe.


This was contained in a statement by the Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akin Rotimi on Wednesday in Abuja.


Rotimi noted that the Reps members are saddened to learn of the tragic explosion in Bodija, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital on Tuesday, resulting in the loss of lives, injuries and damage to property.


According to him, “the House commiserates with the Government and People of Oyo State, while praying for fortitude for the grieving families and God’s healing for the scores receiving treatment.


“We note and commend the timely intervention of first responders as this ensured that survivors received prompt first aid and evacuation to medical facilities for further treatment.


“The House also commends the responsiveness of the Oyo State Governor, H.E. Seyi Makinde, whose timely presence on the scene reassured panicked citizens and helped in dousing tension.


“On our part, the House of Representatives assures Nigerians that we will render necessary legislative intervention and intensify oversight functions to ensure that avoidable occurrences as this, are curbed.


“To this end, the Green Chamber will also mandate our relevant committees to review issues around mining, handling and storage of explosives and ordinances, as well as permissible activities in residential areas and other matters arising, with a view to taking decisions that will keep Nigerians safe upon the submission of their reports at plenary.


“The House urges the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to accelerate its intervention to the people affected by the explosion.


“It is of note that Governor Makinde has cited preliminary investigations by security agencies as revealing the cause of the blast to be explosive devices stored by illegal miners. We also welcome the assurance by the governor that those found culpable for the explosion would be brought to book.”


Reacting to the incident, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen PhD described the incident as worrisome and expressed sympathy to families who suffered losses.


“The explosion in a peaceful and populated ancient city like Ibadan is terrifying. It is more worrisome that it happened at a time when the government is tackling various security issues and threats to lives and property.


“My heart goes out to the people of Ibadan, especially the victims and their families over their avoidable losses,” he said.