>
Akinwande Soji-Ojo
Oyo State Government has set up an emergency situation hub to collate and co-ordinate management of victims affected by the explosion that rocked Ibadan on Tuesday night.
A statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said anyone affected by the incident can go to the premises of the Housing Corporation at Bodija, Ibadan.
Oyelade, who noted that the situation hub is headed by the deputy governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, also advised victims to submit verifiable evidences of their losses and seek clarifications on the nature of government intervention.
He said temporary accommodation has been organised by the government for those displaced as a result of the explosion, adding that the state government will also finance the hospital bills of those injured.
The commissioner confirmed that several victims have started registering at the hub, and are being put through by emergency and disaster experts.
“As investigation continues, the state government is narrowing down on the possible cause of the explosion.
“Due to new evidences, government is investigating certain leads that suggest storage of explosives by illegal miners residing in the area.
“During his visit to the scene last night, Governor Seyi Makinde implored residents of Oyo State to be more sensitive to the goings-on in their environment.
“If you see something, say something,” the commissioner said.
Oyelade said the explosion affected some structures of Ministries, Departments and Agencies at the state secretariat, adding that the impact and venom of the explosion was felt about 15km apart
He added that residents can call the situation room on 615 or 09040899710 for SMS, Whatsapp and pictorial evidences.