Bodija explosion fund allocated by the Federal Government remains largely untouched, Oyo State has revealed, nearly two years after the January 16, 2024 tragedy in Ibadan. The state disclosed that of the N50 billion approved for post-explosion reconstruction, only N30 billion was released, and it has yet to be accessed. The remaining N20 billion is still withheld by federal authorities without explanation.
In a joint statement, Oyo State Commissioners for Budget and Economic Planning, Professor Musibau Babatunde, and Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that the N30 billion lies untouched in the State Infrastructure Support Account (No. 2045199879) with First Bank. The state said it refrained from using the funds due to the non-release of the balance by relevant federal agencies.
Governor Seyi Makinde had formally requested federal assistance shortly after the explosion, outlining immediate interventions including search-and-rescue operations, hospitalisation of victims, medical coverage, and accommodation for displaced residents. While the state initially sought N100 billion, the federal government approved only N50 billion for the reconstruction of Old Bodija and surrounding areas.
The first tranche of N30 billion was released on November 4, 2024, but as of December 31, 2025, remains untouched, the statement said. The state emphasized transparency, inviting the public to verify the funds’ status with the bank.
Oyo State expressed appreciation to its citizens for their continued support and patience, assuring that the government would act responsibly once the full federal intervention fund becomes available. The disclosure highlights ongoing concerns about delays in federal fund disbursement for disaster recovery projects.
