The Oyo State Government has commenced the disbursement of N4.8 billion in compensation to victims of the January 17, 2024, Bodija explosion, which caused significant damage and casualties in the Ibadan community.
The announcement was made during a press briefing held in Ibadan, jointly organized by the Bodija Estate Residents’ Association (BERA), Dejo Oyelese Vigilante Group, and other representatives of the community.
The explosion, reportedly caused by illegally stored explosives belonging to unauthorized miners, affected 77 buildings, left five people dead, and injured several others.
Speaking on behalf of the community groups, BERA President Muyiwa Bamgbose described the payout as a “long-awaited but vital move toward recovery.”
He expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for keeping his promise, saying the gesture would bring relief to those still grappling with the physical, emotional, and financial aftermath of the tragedy.
Bamgbose commended the governor’s empathy and responsiveness, adding that the compensation process was managed by the Relief Fund Management and Disbursement Committee, led by the Deputy Governor.
The committee approved a total compensation package of N4.08 billion after thorough assessments conducted by professional bodies.
According to Bamgbose, 318 buildings within a 500-metre radius of the blast site were assessed.
The fund also includes financial support for the families of the five deceased victims, 102 registered tenants, owners of 37 damaged vehicles, and others directly affected.
He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various emergency and technical agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (OYSEMA), University College Hospital (UCH), Nigerian Red Cross, DSS, and NSCDC.
He also recognized the technical input from professional bodies like the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the Nigerian Institute of Architects, and the Geoinformation Society of Nigeria.
The medical response, particularly by UCH and local private hospitals, was also praised for their prompt and life-saving interventions during the crisis.
Bamgbose revealed that, in addition to the state government’s intervention, the community received N35.4 million in donations and relief supplies from individuals and federal agencies, which were distributed in August 2024.
However, he noted that 17 affected properties were excluded from the compensation due to their location outside the designated 500-metre radius. He appealed to the governor to consider these households in the interest of fairness.
The disbursement has begun, with many beneficiaries confirming receipt. Nonetheless, BERA acknowledged that roughly 20 cases remain unresolved, involving inheritance issues, account discrepancies, or legal clarifications requiring input from the Ministry of Justice.
While underscoring that financial compensation cannot replace lost lives, Bamgbose reaffirmed the community’s resolve to rebuild. He also introduced the “Smart Bodija Initiative” — a strategic plan focused on long-term restoration, safety, and sustainable development.
“Bodija will never forget, but Bodija will rise again,” he concluded.
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