On Tuesday 16th January, 2024, a powerful explosion rattled parts of Ibadan, the Capital of Oyo State, Nigeria, leaving residents in shock. Videos circulated online depicted a dusty cloud, burning structures, and distressed locals.

A University of Ibadan student reported, "We heard the sound, it was very loud. The cloud was cloudy with smoke; it happened at Bodija, and we could see the smoke from the UI area."

Motunrayo Adegboro, a resident of Barika, confirmed the incident, stating, "Some claim it was a gas explosion, while others mention a filling station. It happened in Bodija, and even a mall, Ace Mall, collapsed."

Social media echoed the panic, with tweets describing the aftermath. @WillieWinehouse exclaimed, "A bomb just exploded in Ibadan! My entire house and street are in ruins!! What is going on??" Another user, @the_beardedsina, appealed for medical personnel, saying, "Please, our help is needed at Adeyi Avenue, Bodija. There are serious casualties there."

A later video reassured that Ace Mall was unscathed, but the state government and Oyo State Police Command confirmed the explosion.

Commissioner Dotun Oyelade stated, "The state government is in full control...security services deployed." The police tweeted, "Explosion around Dejo Oyelese Street Bodija...cause unknown. Number of dead and injured yet unknown as search continues." Governor Seyi Makinde urged citizens to remain calm, assuring that their interests were being attended to.