Victims of the devastating explosion that rocked Bodija Estate in Ibadan on January 16, 2024, have accused the Oyo State government of abandoning them, months after the tragedy claimed five lives and destroyed over 77 buildings on Adeyi Avenue.
During a community meeting held on Oba Olagbegi Street in Old Bodija, members of the Bodija Estate Residents Association (BERA) voiced their frustration, insisting they had not received any form of financial assistance from the government.
Pastor Muyiwa Bamgbose, BERA chairman, decried the hardship faced by many displaced residents. “Some paid as much as N4 million to rent new homes, others N9 million. Some have been forced to squat despite their age,” he lamented.
He revealed that a committee had been set up to investigate the matter and submitted its report in February, but no action has been taken. “We are begging the government because we are powerless. People need help now; we can’t keep waiting,” he added.
Echoing the sentiments, Dipo Olasope (SAN), a resident, recalled a radio programme where he raised concerns about the victims’ plight. He said Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who was also on the programme, had assured that disbursements would begin within two weeks. “It’s been months since then, and nothing has been done,” Olasope said.
