As residents of Bodija areas of Ibadan have continued to count their loses over the last Tuesday blast which occurred at the Oyo State capital, some senior lawyers properties were also affected.
Among the members of the Bar whose properties were destroyed on the street include the Late Chief Bola Ige SAN, the late Chief Bandele Aiku SAN, and an hospitality building said to belong to the late Governor of Ondo state, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN..
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Niyi Akintola while giving details account of the disaster said his Hotel property known as ‘House 40″ on Dejo Oyelese Street was reduced to rubbles by the blast.
The Senior Lawyer wrote ” this is what remains of my modest contributions to hospitality businesses in Ibadaland just after the explosions of last night in Bodija.
” It is a posh hotel in a posh area known as ‘House 40″ on Dejo Oyelese Street . Bodiam. I recalled that some of our colleagues on this platform who had at one time enjoyed the hospitality of the modest 24 beds which include 8 suites, 3 chalets and 13 standard rooms are Alariwo, Wole Iyamu SAN, H,E. Iyiola Oladokun (whose residence) that shared a fence with my house 40 was completely destroyed.
“Other members of the Bar whose properties were destroyed on the street include the Late Chief Bola Ige SAN, the late Chief Bandele Aiku SAN, and an hospitality building said to belong to the late Governor of Ondo state, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN.. My 3 Other properties on Alabiamo Street, Adeyi Street and Adenuga Street were also slightly damaged with removed roof, removed POP ceilings, sliding doors, air-conditionals and several electrical applications.
“Oh my God, it is terrible. As I write this with my hands trembling, some guests and 3 hotel staff are in the hospital but we thank God that no casuality was recorded. What a way to start a new year? I need your prayers please.” Akintola lamented .
Meanwhile, Hon. Salami Waliu,the Minority Leader, Oyo State House of Assembly has expressed heartfelt condolences message to the victims of the blast
The statement reads ” in the wake of the devastating explosion blast in Bodija, Ibadan, my heart is heavy with sorrow for the victims and their families. As the Minority Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly, I extend my deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragic event.
“This reprehensible act has left an indelible mark on our community, and we stand together in grief, united against the forces that seek to sow discord and inflict harm. The pain and suffering that the victims and their families are enduring are unimaginable, and my thoughts and prayers go out to each and every one of them.
“During these challenging times, it is essential that we, as leaders, come together to provide support and solace to the affected families and the community at large. Our shared commitment to unity and resilience will be crucial in rebuilding the lives shattered by this senseless act of violence.
“I call upon our fellow legislators, irrespective of political affiliations, to join hands in expressing our collective grief and solidarity with the people of Bodija and Oyo state in general. Let us set aside our differences and work collaboratively to address the immediate needs of the victims and their families.
“Furthermore, I urge the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice swiftly. It is crucial that we, as a society, stand firm against any form of violence that threatens the safety and well-being of our constituents.
As we mourn the lives lost, let us also recommit ourselves to fostering an environment of peace, tolerance, and unity within our community. By working together, we can rebuild, heal, and emerge stronger from this tragedy”