Sawane Youssouf, a suspected Malian miner in Ibadan, Oyo State, has refuted claims of owning or renting the house where a fatal explosion occurred on January 16.
The explosion, which claimed five lives, injured 77 individuals, and damaged 58 houses in Adeyi, Old Bodiji, was initially linked to Youssouf’s alleged involvement in illegal mining activities by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
Governor Makinde, during an update, signed Executive Order 001, 2024, concerning the handling and storage of harmful substances. He later visited the blast site, emphasizing zero tolerance for such activities.
However, Youssouf, in a statement titled “Bodija Explosion: My Own Side of the Story,” asserted his innocence and legality in mining activities in Oyo State.
Denying ownership of the building and explosives involved in the explosion, Youssouf clarified that while he engages in mining activities, all his operations adhere to Nigerian constitutional provisions.
He urged the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to uncover the true owners of the building and explosives, pledging his cooperation in ongoing investigations.
Youssouf reiterated his readiness to assist authorities whenever required to shed light on the tragic incident, stressing his desire for justice and truth to prevail.
