The Oyo State Government has announced plans to construct a memorial site at Dejo Oyelese Close, Adeyi Avenue, Ibadan, to honor the victims of the devastating Bodija explosion that occurred on January 16, 2024.
Governor Seyi Makinde shared this initiative in his latest newsletter, released to mark the first anniversary of the tragedy.
Acknowledging the gravity of the loss, Governor Makinde said, “We know that nothing can bring back those we lost, but we will build a memorial at the site later this year.” He added that the state government is committed to providing support to the affected families.
“The committee I inaugurated to oversee the disbursement of financial support to victims last month has submitted its report. Disbursements will be made within the next two weeks,” he stated.
The governor also highlighted rehabilitation efforts underway in the affected area. “We have started rehabilitating the roads in the area as part of our efforts to fix some of the damage done,” he noted.
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In addressing public safety, Makinde emphasized the government’s resolve to prevent similar disasters in the future. “We will continue to invest in the security of lives and properties of our people to ensure that preventable disasters like this do not repeat themselves,” he said.
He also pointed to the implementation of new safety measures, including Executive Order 001, 2024, which focuses on the safe handling and storage of hazardous materials.
Urging community collaboration, the governor called on residents to remain vigilant. “If you see something, please say something so the relevant authorities can do something,” he appealed.
Governor Makinde further mentioned ongoing legal proceedings related to the explosion. “Those directly involved in the storage of explosives in that residential area have been arrested, and the case is being prosecuted at the Federal High Court, Ibadan,” he explained.
The Bodija explosion of January 2024 remains a tragic event in Oyo State’s history, and the planned memorial site is intended to serve as a lasting tribute to the lives lost.