Panic gripped Ibadan, Nigeria’s ancient city, on Tuesday evening, as a powerful explosion rocked the capital, causing buildings to collapse and sparking fears of widespread casualties. The terrifying vibration reverberated across the city, with reports of damage in Awolowo, Bodija, Akobo, and other areas.
Residents described an ear-splitting blast followed by tremors that sent car alarms blaring and windows shattering. “It was like the ground itself opened up,” a witness in Bodija, identified only as Abosede, told Channels Television. “Cars were tossed around, and houses started coming down.”
As of press time, the exact cause of the explosion and the number of casualties remain unclear. Calls to the state police and emergency responders were reportedly going unanswered, adding to the mounting anxiety.
The Oyo State Government, in a brief statement on social media, acknowledged the reports and promised to provide updates as information becomes available.
“Residents are urged to remain calm as security agencies are investigating this to determine the source and cause of the incident,” the government said.
However, initial indications point to a significant incident with potentially grave consequences.
Local authorities have urged residents to remain calm and avoid the affected areas while rescue efforts get underway. The extent of the damage and the number of those injured or trapped under debris are still being assessed.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.
Here are some posts from X on the tragedy:
https://twitter.com/heiskaptain/status/1747332595854070092?t=fRNgcJ_ogxtVWfBSjE9iXQ&s=19
If you are a Medical personnel in Ibadan & close by, please your help & assistance is needed at Adeyi Avenue, Bodija.
There are casualties there. Please help RT
— Dr. Chinonso Egemba (@aproko_doctor) January 16, 2024
https://twitter.com/The9jatowncrier/status/1747340667133509805?t=kyTNCV2kHluJZfx807NmeQ&s=19
https://twitter.com/dammiedammie35/status/1747346553184903630?t=93zGsrrP673vqDCxbtuezw&s=19
https://twitter.com/shurley_bankz/status/1747337979863949680?t=-eM9WidFpIUjeWadJkLLAw&s=19
https://twitter.com/raycypherSf/status/1747348012320358473?t=3K9vIe1ZkpY9YhB8Mn5hOg&s=19
https://twitter.com/mister_ade5/status/1747345640202420482?t=9r69KVFfwEDqmetF4zoC5Q&s=19
https://twitter.com/drpenking/status/1747354682547200294?t=5mBSt7cUPxoBxD6jzzvjmg&s=19
