The Oyo State government has approved N4.5 billion to support the survivors and families affected by the explosion that rocked the Bodija area of Ibadan earlier this last year.
The explosion led to the destruction of properties worth billions of naira and left many residents displaced and in distress.
The decision was reached during the latest State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Seyi Makinde.
Part of the approved plan includes building a monument on land near the explosion site to remember those who lost their lives.
The land had its title revoked by the government based on a recommendation from a 10-member committee.
Before this latest allocation, the state had already spent more than N200 million on immediate support, such as housing, food, hospital treatment, and security for those affected.
The Council explained that the newly approved fund is meant to further assist the victims as they recover and rebuild.
Some of the survivors are currently facing family disagreements over how the funds should be shared.
The government said these cases are being handled carefully by the committee set up to manage the situation.
The government also revealed that it would return nearby properties, excluding those directly affected by the explosion, to their original owners so they can begin rebuilding.
Structural engineers hired by the state have assessed the area to determine which buildings are safe for reconstruction.
In the meantime, suspects linked to the explosion have been taken to court, while the state’s Ministry of Justice is working to find others still on the run.
The government has promised that justice will be pursued fully.
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