In a shocking incident on Tuesday evening, the ancient city of Ibadan, Oyo state capital, was engulfed in panic and confusion as a loud explosion resounded around 7:45 p.m. Reports from residents indicate damages at various locations, with two casualties reported in the Sango Area.

The blast’s impact reached multiple areas, including Bodija, Apete, Ojoo, UI, Moniya, Awotan, Alaro/Poly Ibadan, and Jeje. Residents described feeling their homes shake, with some reporting damaged windows.

The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and damages were observed in homes, including part of the ceiling collapsing at Ace Mall, Bodija, Ibadan.

Seismologists ruled out an earthquake, dispelling rumors circulating on social media about a gas station incident. As of the report’s publishing, the cause and origin of the explosion remained unascertained.

Responding to the crisis, the Oyo State Government issued a statement through Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation.

The government urged residents to stay calm, assuring that security service chiefs, para-military chiefs, and fire operatives had been deployed by Governor Seyi Makinde to manage the aftermath.

The statement emphasized the government’s full control over the situation and its commitment to mitigating the incident’s impact. Governor Makinde implored citizens to trust that their interests were being addressed and called for collective calm amidst the unfortunate occurrence.