Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has given facts behind the explosion which destroyed houses at Eleyowo, Akure, along Owo-Akure highway.
Convoy Transporting Explosives Explodes In Ondo Causing Havoc To 100 Houses, School, Churches 9
The Nigerian Tribune reports that no fewer than 100 residential buildings, school, churches were destroyed by the explosion which occurred around 1 am in the early hours of Saturday. The effect of the blast cut off the ever-busy Akure /Owo road while many people were said to be injured.
The spot at which the blast occurred cut off the road, hindering vehicular movement.
Spot Of The Explosion
The Governor said he has been briefed by security chiefs and efforts were being made to ascertain if there are casualties.
He explained that the explosion occurred when a convoy transporting explosives to a storage facility in a neighbouring state developed a fault while in transit along the Akure Owo Road about 2km from the Akure Airport.
He tweeted, “Security personnel and other individuals transporting the ordinances noticed smoke from the vehicle. After several attempts to extinguish the resulting fire failed, the vehicle and its consignment ignited causing a massive explosion that was felt in Akure and its environs.
“Presently, efforts are being made to ascertain if there are casualties. Following my visit to the scene, I have directed that the area be cordoned off to allow the explosive ordinance department/bomb squad to extricate the vehicle buried underground because.
“It is unclear if there are still explosives that are yet to be detonated . Everything is under control and I will be updating the public on any new developments.
“We understand that this is taking place in the midst of a global crisis. We ask that everyone continues to stay calm, stay safe and continue to #TakeResponsibility in this #COVID19Nigeria fight.”
The Ondo state police command collaborated governor Akeredolu’s statement about the explosion, confirming it was caused when a truck conveying explosives to a quarry company in Edo state exploded at the airport junction area.
13 worshipers inside “Possibility Prayer Mountain for All Nation Church” were injured and rushed to the hospital. Three security guards in a nearby school were also injured and are being treated.
