The Bodija Estate Residents Association (BERA) revealed on Wednesday that approximately 10 individuals are still unaccounted for in the aftermath of the January 17 explosion in the community. Muyiwa Bamgbose, the Association’s President, expressed concerns about the missing persons and emphasized the urgent need for assistance.
During a consultative meeting, Bamgbose stated, “If the person was seen yesterday and was not seen today or you can’t find him again, then you need to get worried. But I believe it’s nearer 10 now.” BERA, representing all communities in Bodija, issued a call for substantial support to aid the victims in rebuilding their lives.
Highlighting the unforeseen impact on the lives of the victims, Bamgbose stressed the importance of ongoing care and support. He acknowledged the challenges faced by individuals in accessing medical treatment, some of whom covered their own expenses, while praising certain hospitals for providing free treatment to the injured without formal documentation.
Despite recognising the prompt response from government and emergency agencies, Bamgbose lamented the disarray in providing temporary accommodation for the affected residents. He pointed out the potential for discrepancies and emphasised the necessity for a more structured approach in future emergency situations.
Expressing gratitude for the efforts of the Federal and Oyo State Governments, Bamgbose emphasized the crucial lessons to be learned from this tragic event. He urged for a more coordinated approach to emergency response, citing the current lapses as an opportunity for growth and improvement.
Moreover, Bamgbose underscored the essentiality of community members knowing each other, their residences, and the occupations of their neighbours in enhancing preparedness for unforeseen eventualities. He decried the lack of accurate demographic records, indicating the challenges in establishing the whereabouts of individuals affected by the explosion, and pledged to address this issue within the community.
The absence of comprehensive records and the difficulty in tracing individuals further compounded the gravity of the situation, as Bamgbose expressed concern over the uncertainties surrounding the fate of those who fled the explosion.
As Bodija community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic incident, the heartfelt plea for support and the poignant quest for answers resonate at a global level. The indomitable spirit of the community in the face of adversity stands as a symbol of resilience, echoing the universal pursuit for solidarity and compassion in times of adversity.
