Authorities suspect mining explosives stored in a house are the cause of the explosion
At least two people were killed and 77 others injured as a result of a massive explosion in Ibadan, Nigeria's Oyo state, at a private residence where explosives were stored, Nigeria's governor said on Wednesday.
The explosion caused several houses to collapse, causing panic among residents of Nigeria's third most populous city, and rescue and recovery efforts are currently underway in seven suburbs.
In a statement, the governor, Seyi Makinde, confirmed that there were two deaths and that 77 people were treated for injuries, most of them discharged. bbc reported.
“Preliminary investigations by security agencies revealed that illegal miners occupying one of the houses in Bodija had stored explosive devices there which caused the explosion,” Makinde added.
The explosion was heard in the state capital, Ibadan, 130 kilometers (80 miles) from Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital.
Makinde said search and rescue operations were underway and the state government would provide temporary accommodation to those who lost their homes.
The cause of the explosion is still unclear, but authorities suspect it may have been caused by mining explosives stored in a house.
Photos and videos show buildings reduced to almost rubble and vehicles destroyed by projectiles.
Police have promised a swift investigation into the explosion.
