The Oyo State Government has commenced the disbursement of N4.8 billion in compensation to victims of the January 17, 2024 explosion in the Bodija area of Ibadan.
The announcement was made on Thursday during a joint press conference held in Ibadan by the Bodija Estate Residents’ Association (BERA), Dejo Oyelese Vigilante Group, and the broader Bodija community.
The explosion, reportedly triggered by explosives stored by illegal miners, resulted in the deaths of five people, injuries to several others, and damage to 77 houses. Following extensive assessments, the government approved the relief package through the Relief Fund Management and Disbursement Committee led by the Deputy Governor.
Addressing the media on behalf of the community groups, BERA President, Muyiwa Bamgbose, described the disbursement as a “long-awaited but vital step toward healing and rebuilding.” He expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for fulfilling his promise, hailing the move as a demonstration of compassionate and responsive governance.
“The approved N4.08 billion covers compensation for families who lost loved ones, 102 registered tenants, owners of 37 damaged vehicles, and owners of 318 buildings identified within the 500-metre blast radius,” Bamgbose said.
He also praised the coordinated emergency response from various government and professional bodies, including NEMA, SEMA, UCH, the Nigerian Red Cross, DSS, NSCDC, and technical experts from professional engineering and surveying associations.
In addition, the community received N35.4 million in donations and relief materials, including federal assistance distributed in August 2024.
Bamgbose, however, appealed for the inclusion of 17 affected properties excluded from the compensation list due to their location outside the designated blast radius. “We urge His Excellency to consider support for these households in the spirit of fairness and compassion,” he said.
While most beneficiaries have confirmed receipt of payments, BERA noted that around 20 cases—mostly involving fatalities, inheritance disputes, or account issues—remain under review and will require further input from the Ministry of Justice.
Looking ahead, Bamgbose reaffirmed the community’s resilience and announced the launch of the “Smart Bodija Initiative,” a long-term vision focused on security, sustainable development, and restoration.
“Bodija will never forget, but Bodija will rise again,” he concluded.
