Families and residents affected by the tragic Bodija explosion in Oyo State have begun receiving financial relief, following the state government’s disbursement of N4.8 billion. The announcement was made during a joint press conference held in Ibadan by the Bodija Estate Residents’ Association (BERA), the Dejo Oyelese Vigilante Group, and other community stakeholders.
The January 17, 2024 explosion, allegedly caused by explosives stored illegally by miners, claimed five lives, injured many, and damaged 77 houses. The incident sent shockwaves through the Bodija community, prompting months of investigation, assessment, and planning.
Speaking on behalf of the residents, BERA President, Muyiwa Bamgbose, described the disbursement as a “long-awaited but critical step towards healing and rebuilding.”
He continued: “This disbursement brings hope to those still bearing the emotional, physical, and economic scars of that fateful day. We sincerely thank Governor Seyi Makinde for fulfilling his promise.”
According to Bamgbose, the N4.08 billion relief fund was approved based on the findings of professional assessments carried out by engineers, architects, and quantity surveyors. “A total of 318 buildings within a 500-metre radius of the blast site were identified, along with families who suffered fatalities, tenants, and owners of 37 damaged vehicles,” he said.
He noted that 102 registered tenants were confirmed as beneficiaries, while families who lost loved ones will also receive direct support. However, he pointed out that 17 affected properties fell outside the blast radius and were excluded from compensation.
“We respectfully appeal to His Excellency to extend relief support to these households in the spirit of equity and compassion,” Bamgbose said.
The explosion response, he noted, involved multiple agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Nigerian Red Cross, and University College Hospital (UCH). He added that the medical teams provided life-saving interventions, including surgeries and transfusions, in the immediate aftermath.
Bamgbose also revealed that the community had received N35.4 million worth of relief materials and donations from public and private bodies, including the federal government. These were officially distributed in August 2024.
While disbursement has commenced and many recipients have confirmed payments, Bamgbose said around 20 cases mostly involving deaths, inheritance issues, or account errors require further clarification and input from the Ministry of Justice.
“No amount of money can replace the lives lost,” he said. “But this support brings a sense of justice and renewal.”
Looking to the future, BERA announced the Smart Bodija Initiative, a forward-looking plan aimed at strengthening infrastructure, enhancing security, and promoting sustainable development in the estate.
“Bodija will never forget, but Bodija will rise again,” Bamgbose declared.
