Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has inaugurated a 10-man committee to oversee the immediate disbursement of funds for the victims of the devastating explosion that occurred on January 16 in the Bodija area of Ibadan.
The committee was established to provide swift and transparent relief to the affected residents, especially those from the Dejo Oyelese-Bodija Estate, who were significantly impacted by the tragedy.
The inauguration ceremony, which took place at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, was attended by key officials and representatives from various sectors of the state.
Speaking at the event, Governor Makinde expressed deep concern for the victims of the explosion, describing the incident as one that had severely disrupted the socio-economic fabric of the state.
“The explosion that rocked Bodija on January 16 had a far-reaching negative impact, not just on the residents of the Dejo Oyelese-Bodija Estate, but on the broader community and the state as a whole,” the governor stated.
Governor Makinde reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the people of Oyo State receive the necessary support in times of crisis. He emphasized that the establishment of the committee is part of his government’s ongoing efforts to provide immediate relief and assistance to those in need.
“As a government, we remain dedicated to standing with the people of Oyo State, particularly in their times of hardship. This committee is part of our commitment to ensuring that no resident is left behind, and that those who have been affected by this tragedy receive the necessary assistance promptly,” the governor affirmed.
The committee, which comprises a diverse group of individuals from various sectors, will be responsible for ensuring that the funds are disbursed fairly and efficiently to those affected by the explosion. Governor Makinde urged the committee members to prioritize transparency and timeliness in the disbursement process.
“It is crucial that this process is carried out with the highest level of transparency and efficiency. We must ensure that the victims receive the support they need without unnecessary delays,” he said.
In addition to the disbursement of funds, Governor Makinde pledged to undertake infrastructural improvements in the Bodija area. He announced plans for the construction of new roads into and within the affected Bodija streets, as well as the establishment of a memorial monument to honor those impacted by the explosion.
“We will not only provide immediate relief but will also invest in the long-term recovery of the affected area. The construction of roads and the establishment of a memorial monument will serve as lasting symbols of resilience and recovery,” he added.
The 10-man committee, which will oversee the disbursement process, includes several notable figures, including Oyo State’s Deputy Governor, Adebayo Lawal, former Deputy Governor, Iyiola Oladokun, and Pastor Muyiwa Bamgbose.
Other members of the committee include Mrs. Ojuolape Busari, a representative of the Nigerian Journalists in Oyo State, and representatives from the Nigerian Bar Association and Nigerian Society of Engineers, among others.
