The Oyo State Government has approved a ₦4.5 billion compensation package for victims and survivors of the devastating Bodija explosion that rocked Ibadan on January 16, 2024. The decision was reached during an Executive Council meeting held at the Governor’s Office in Agodi, Ibadan.
This latest financial commitment comes in addition to over ₦200 million previously spent by the state on emergency support, including accommodation, healthcare, feeding, and security for affected residents in the immediate aftermath of the blast.
According to a statement released by the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, the Council also approved the revocation of titles to two properties located off Adeyi Avenue, identified as part of the explosion site. These titles were annulled following recommendations by a 10-member investigative panel set up after the incident.
In a symbolic move to honor victims, the state government announced plans to construct a monument on the revoked land as a permanent memorial to those affected by the explosion, which left multiple casualties and extensive property damage.
Oyelade condemned ongoing misinformation allegedly spread by individuals claiming to represent Bodija residents, labeling their criticisms of the government’s handling of the incident as “unfair and mischievous.” He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to justice and transparency.
“There is no basis for the half-truths being circulated,” Oyelade said. “The government has acted with patience, compassion, and thoroughness to ensure fair treatment for all victims.”
He noted that some of the planned disbursements had been delayed due to ongoing family disputes among potential beneficiaries — issues the 10-man committee is currently resolving.
The Commissioner added that government-funded structural engineers have assessed properties near the blast site (ground zero), and owners of those deemed safe will soon be allowed to return and rebuild with state support.
Oyelade reiterated that legal proceedings are ongoing against suspects arrested in connection with the explosion, and the Ministry of Justice is committed to ensuring effective prosecution. Efforts to apprehend additional suspects still at large are also being intensified.
In a related development, Governor Seyi Makinde addressed speculation surrounding his recent cabinet reshuffle, clarifying during the Executive Council session that no cabinet member is being dismissed arbitrarily.
“The reshuffle is not punitive,” the governor was quoted as saying. “It is about renewing our commitment to efficient governance. Anyone distracted will have to make way, but this is about injecting new energy as we work toward 2027 with the same vigor we started in 2019.”
Makinde urged citizens to disregard rumors of internal instability, reaffirming his administration’s focus on transparency, accountability, and sustained progress.
