The Executive Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Asiwaju Akeem Olatunji, on Wednesday paid an on the spot assessment of the site of a tragic quarry explosion in Ibadan that claimed the life of a resident.
The explosion, which occurred at Orisunbare along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, was reportedly triggered by operations of a Mining Company operating in the area.
The blast also impacted on nearby buildings belonging to another mining firm and left parts of the surrounding community in disarray.
Olatunji, joined by members of the Oyo State House of Assembly House Committees on Environment as well as Mining, decried mining operations without necessary safety measures in place, describing it as ‘avoidable and regrettable’.
Olatunji and the state Assembly delegation visited both the affected blast site and affected companies to assess firsthand information on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Speaking during the inspection, Olatunji described the incident as unfortunate and expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family.
He emphasized that beyond sympathy, there must be accountability. According to him, collaboration among the Local Government, the Oyo State House of Assembly, and the Oyo State Solid Minerals Development Agency is crucial to ensure that justice is served and that safety regulations are strictly enforced in the sector.
The council boss also decried the failure of several companies operating within Oluyole Local Government to meet their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations in order develop rural communities hosting them.
He noted that this attitude has strained relations between businesses and their host communities and urged corporate entities to prioritize the welfare and safety of residents.
In his remarks, Hon. Olorunpoto Rahman assured the community that the Oyo State House of Assembly would take decisive action.
He said the House would not hesitate to ensure that the mining company and others found culpable are held accountable in line with existing laws.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Orisunbare General Community, Mr. Ayo Akinyemi, who spoke on behalf of residents, expressed gratitude to the Oluyole Local Government and the visiting lawmakers for their swift response.
He lamented that many companies in the area have for years neglected their host communities, showing little concern for safety or welfare despite the profits they earn from local resources.
Mr. Akinyemi added that the community now looks to the government to ensure that this tragedy prompts genuine reform and stronger oversight in the mining and quarrying operations in Oluyole LG.
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