Explosion Rocks Nigerian City: Catholic Families Left Homeless, 2 Dead and 77 Injured

The recent explosion in the Nigerian city of Ibadan has resulted in significant turmoil, including two fatalities, over 70 injuries, and the displacement of numerous Catholic families. The explosion is believed to have been caused by an illegal mining site in Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s most populous cities, and has caused widespread destruction to buildings and structures within a radius of over 100 meters.

In an interview with The Pillar, Fr. Francis Awotoye, the pastor of the Ascension Bodija parish, revealed that while there were no casualties among parishioners, many families were left homeless as their residences were rendered uninhabitable. Recounting the harrowing experience, Fr. Awotoye mentioned that the explosion occurred immediately after he had finished offering Mass on the evening of January 16, causing a loud and deafening sound that echoed within the church premises, prompting panic among parishioners seeking safety.

Subsequent investigations revealed that the blast originated from an illegal mining operation nearly a mile away from the parish, with local authorities attributing the explosion to the storage of explosives in homes by workers of the illegal mining site. Tragically, this led to the ignition of the explosives, resulting in the catastrophic blast.

Moreover, allegations have been made against Sawane Youssouf, a Malian national associated with SDYB International Company Nigeria Ltd., which is involved in mining activities in the Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State. Residents have questioned how Youssouf was able to obtain large quantities of explosives and store them in his residence, raising concerns about the safety and regulations surrounding such practices.

As the situation continues to unfold, the affected families, including several Catholic families, are left to grapple with the aftermath of the explosion. Ongoing investigations aim to shed light on the calamitous event and the impact it has had on the local community.

The repercussions of this tragic incident serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illegal activities and the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols. The devastation brought upon the innocent victims, including the displacement of families, highlights the need for stringent measures to prevent such occurrences from happening in the future.

As we await further details from the investigations, our thoughts are with the affected families and the entire community of Ibadan. We hope that the authorities will work swiftly to provide assistance to those in need and ensure that justice is served in the wake of this distressing event.