Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde ruled out a ban on mining activities following the Tuesday night explosion that rocked Bodija, a residential area in Ibadan, the state capital.
Addressing the incident, Makinde attributed the blast to illegal miners storing explosives in a Bodija building, causing damage across Bodija, Agbowo, Eleyele, and Orogun.
Despite the incident, Makinde emphasized his commitment to responsible mining, rejecting calls for a blanket ban. “We recognize the concerns arising from this tragedy,” he said, “but a responsible mining sector can co-exist with public safety.
Our focus is on cracking down on illegal activities and implementing stricter regulations to ensure responsible mining practices.”
The governor lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s prompt support in response to the disaster. “The President’s swift offer of assistance demonstrates his commitment to the well-being of all Nigerians,” Makinde acknowledged.
“We are collaborating closely with the federal government to provide relief to affected residents and conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion.”
The blast, while attributed to illegal activities, highlighted concerns about safety standards and environmental implications of mining in the state.
While Makinde reaffirmed his commitment to responsible mining, his statement suggests a focus on targeted enforcement against illegal practices rather than a drastic ban on the entire industry. The President’s swift support for the affected area further underscores the national attention drawn by the incident.
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