By Gabriel Ewepu, ABUJA

Aftermath of Ibadan explosion, the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN) disclosed that it is embarking on aggressive sensitization of members on the best mining operations and handling of explosives.

In a chat with Vanguard, the President, MAN, ‘Dele Ayanleke, disclosed that the association has taken it upon itself to intensify the sensitization of members in collaboration with the 36 state chapters and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja, to avert any recurrence of the deadly and devastating incidence in parts of Ibadan.

It will be recalled that he (Ayanleke) said all has been done to unravel those behind the explosions that occurred in Ibadan, that miners were allegedly responsible for the blasts, but cleared the air that the alleged mining company behind the explosion in Ibadan on that fateful Tuesday night was not a member of the association because there are a lot of mining companies operating in the sector who are not registered members of the association.

However, he said the documents traceable to the alleged company should be known by the Solid Minerals Ministry, which officially grants companies mining leases for them to operate, hence, the Ministry should have the company’s records.

He said, “Sensitization of our members in all our chapters is an ongoing thing, not just in Oyo State.

 

“Members in Oyo State just need to tidy up, be wary of the sources of supply for all their operational materials, and be prepared for some scrutiny from security agencies at this material time.”

Meanwhile, following the deadly explosions in Ibadan three weeks ago, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, also charged manufacturers of mine explosives to be strict and adhere to international standards and best practices by tightening the security surrounding explosives handling, purchasing, and monitoring to prevent unpleasant experiences.

Alake had said Nigerians should be patient as the Federal Government is awaiting the outcome of the forensic investigation into the Ibadan explosion, which occurred on January 16, 2024, to determine its next line of action.

It will be recalled that no fewer than five persons were reported killed, 77 injured, and 58 buildings damaged by the deadly explosion.