Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has inaugurated a 10-member committee tasked with managing and disbursing the Bodija Explosion Relief Fund.
The governor emphasized the importance of transparency in assisting those affected by the January 16, 2024 explosion on Dejo Oyelese Street, Bodija, Ibadan. The explosion, attributed to the illegal storage of mining devices, caused significant damage to properties in the area.
Speaking during the committee’s inauguration on Tuesday, Makinde clarified that the relief fund aims to support victims rather than serve as compensation. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare of the people and pledged to rehabilitate the road leading to the explosion site. Additionally, he announced plans to erect a monument in the area to commemorate the incident.
The governor commended professional organizations that collaborated with the state during the crisis for their swift response and support. He urged the committee to work efficiently, allocate resources judiciously, and include capable individuals to ensure seamless operations.
Committee Composition
The committee is chaired by the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Lawal, and includes:
Chief Iyiola Oladokun, former Deputy Governor of Oyo State and Chairman, of Dejo Oyelese Vigilante Group
Pastor Muyiwa Bamgbose, Chairman, Bodija Estate Residents Association
Alhaji Gafar Bello, Executive Assistant on Finance, Budget, and Planning
Mrs. Ojuolape Busari, Secretary, Oyo State Emergency Management Agency
Mr. Ibrahim Lawal, Nigerian Bar Association nominee
Mr. Oluseye Ojo, Nigeria Union of Journalists nominee
Engr. Ibrahim Bello, Nigerian Society of Engineers nominee
Mrs. Arinola Olanipekun, Dejo Oyelese Vigilante Group nominee
Mr. David Afolayan, Bodija Estate Residents Association nominee
Dignitaries in Attendance
Prominent attendees at the event included:
Former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Hamid Gbadamosi
Mrs. Mutiat Ladoja, wife of a former Oyo State Governor
Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, former Speaker of the House of Assembly
Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, Chief of Staff to the Governor
Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, Head of Service, Oyo State
Commissioners and Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor, Chief Bayo Lawal
Other notable figures included the governor’s Special Adviser on Security, CP Fatai Owoseni (rtd), Oyo State PDP Secretary, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, Co-Chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Chief Wole Oyelese, and Hon. Sikiru Sanda, Chairman of Oyo State Local Government Chairmen.
Governor Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to accountability and support for the affected community while urging all stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of service delivery.
