Malian Involved in Ibadan Explosion Linked to Illegal Mining Activities

Investigations into the explosion that rocked Dejo Oyelese close, Bodija Housing Estate in Ibadan on Tuesday have revealed that a Malian individual, allegedly involved in illegal mining activities in Oyo State, was behind the incident.

According to eyewitnesses residing in the vicinity of the explosion, the building where the explosion occurred was occupied by the said Malian, who had been residing there for several years.

It was disclosed that the individual, identified as being involved in illegal mining, was known to the community as a Malian national.

An elderly resident who spoke with the media mentioned that the Malian and his family had vacated the premises before the explosion. “He is from Mali. But I didn’t know that he was keeping such explosives in the house.

We know him to be a Malian. Everyone knows that he is doing illegal mining,” the resident stated.

Furthermore, another long-term resident of the area, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed concerns about the significant presence of Malians in the neighborhood. “Majority of the houses there are being occupied by Malians.

Malians have bought the majority of the houses there,” the resident said, highlighting a potential issue of illegal residency and activities.

In addition, it was revealed that the Malian had previously faced a petition from residents in his former residence, prompting his relocation to the area where the explosion occurred.

“There was a petition against him by fellow tenants in his former residence.

It forced him to leave the place and come here,” another resident disclosed.

The explosion resulted in the collapse of three houses and caused significant damage to property.

While the Malian and his family were reported to have fled the scene before the explosion, investigations into the incident are ongoing.