By Milcah Tanimu

In response to the recent explosion in Ibadan, the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Taiwo Owoseni, held a press conference to clarify that the incident was not caused by terrorists, and there is no evidence of a helicopter dropping a bomb. The press conference took place at the Briefing Room of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan on Wednesday.

Owoseni emphasized that misinformation has circulated, with some suggesting that Boko Haram elements invaded Oyo State, especially Ibadan. He categorically dismissed these claims as incorrect, stating that the area of the incident has been secured to prevent criminal activities by hoodlums.

Addressing other speculations, Owoseni refuted the idea that a helicopter flew over the location and dropped the bomb, describing such accounts as entirely incorrect. He also dismissed claims that dynamite used at nearby construction sites caused the explosion, asserting that this information is not accurate.

From a security perspective, Owoseni indicated that preliminary evidence suggests the presence of stored explosives in the area for some time. Governor Makinde, during the press conference, revealed that a preliminary investigation pointed to explosives stored by illegal miners in a house in the Bodija area as the cause of the explosion.

Governor Makinde emphasized the importance of vigilance, encouraging residents to report suspicious activities. As of Wednesday evening, the governor reported that three people had lost their lives in the incident, and approximately 60 out of nearly 80 injured individuals had been discharged from hospitals. The government continues to investigate the incident and address the aftermath while assuring the public that measures are in place to maintain security in the affected area.