Bodija Explosion at Two: Victims Seek Fresh Compensation as Oyo Govt Reaffirms Commitment

Two years after the tragic Bodija explosion that claimed several lives and left lasting scars on the Bodija community in Ibadan, residents and government officials have renewed calls for justice, compassion and sustained intervention, as many victims continue to grapple with grief, unfinished rebuilding projects and financial hardship.

These concerns were highlighted on Friday during an interdenominational remembrance service held at All Souls Church, Old Bodija, Ibadan.

The second anniversary remembrance was organised by the Bodija Estate Residents’ Association (BERA) in collaboration with the Dejo Oyelese Vigilante Group (DOVG). The event drew residents, community leaders, religious leaders and representatives of the Oyo State Government.

Speaking at the service, the President of BERA, Pastor Muyiwa Bamgbose, appealed for calm among residents while stressing the urgent need for renewed and adequate support for families still bearing the impact of the tragedy.

According to him, despite the passage of two years, some families who lost loved ones are yet to receive any form of assistance, while others have been unable to complete the reconstruction of their damaged homes due to lack of funds.

He explained that financial constraints at the time affected decisions on compensation and intervention, noting that figures were reviewed downward and some items removed during committee deliberations.

Bamgbose, however, said the situation had reportedly improved, with indications that funds were now available, and urged all stakeholders to prioritise the welfare of victims.

He noted that although no intervention could completely erase the trauma caused by the explosion, deliberate efforts must be made to ease the pain of those affected and prevent prolonged sorrow within the community.

He therefore appealed to residents to remain calm and patient, while calling on the government to demonstrate compassion by ensuring that available funds are directed towards supporting victims rather than diverted to other projects.

Representing Governor Seyi Makinde at the event, the Chairman of the Oyo State Housing Corporation, Mr Demola Omotoso, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the Bodija community and all victims of the explosion.

Describing the incident as unfortunate and unplanned, Omotoso said the state government responded promptly by providing emergency relief, ensuring security and accommodating displaced residents in the immediate aftermath of the explosion.

He noted that government intervention did not stop at emergency response, stressing that empathy and support for victims have remained a priority.

According to him, there was no vacuum in governance from the moment the incident occurred, as the government acted out of responsibility even before funding sources were clearly identified.

Omotoso pointed to ongoing reconstruction of roads and infrastructure in the area as evidence of government commitment, stressing that the affected residents remain a priority to the administration.

He assured residents that government intervention was ongoing and would not end with current efforts, adding that further support was being planned.

The remembrance service concluded with prayers for those who lost their lives in the explosion, as well as for healing, comfort and restoration for the Bodija community.