In a bid to prevent future disasters and protect the lives and properties of its citizens, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has signed an executive order into law on the handling and storage of harmful devices in the state.

The executive order, numbered 001, 2024, was signed on Wednesday at the governor’s private office, following the recent explosion at Bodija, where explosives were stored in a residential area, killing five people and injuring 77 others.

According to the order, which is based on Sections 5 (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), it is now a criminal offense for anyone, company or institution resident or domicile in Oyo state to directly or indirectly store explosives without government permission and approvals.

The governor said the move was part of measures to forestall future occurrences of the same or similar events and to ensure the safety and security of the people of Oyo state.

He added that anyone caught violating the order would face the full wrath of the law, and urged the public to report any suspicious activities or storage of harmful devices to the relevant authorities.

“I just signed an executive order on handling and storage of harmful substances. If you are caught in Oyo State not following the law, the law will take its full course. There is zero tolerance on handling of harmful substances,” he said.

The governor, accompanied by other government functionaries, also visited the site of the blast, where he commiserated with the victims and assured them of the government’s support.

He said the government would conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion, and take necessary steps to prevent such incidents from happening again.

He also appealed to the residents of the area to remain calm and cooperate with the security agencies, who are working to restore normalcy and maintain law and order.

The governor’s action has been widely praised by the residents of the state, who expressed their appreciation for his swift and decisive response to the tragedy.

They also lauded his efforts to improve the security situation in the state, which has been facing various challenges such as kidnapping, banditry, and communal clashes.

The executive order is one of the latest initiatives by the governor to enhance the welfare and well-being of the people of Oyo state, which is the fifth most populous state in Nigeria, with an estimated population of over 15 million people.

Since he assumed office in 2019, Governor Makinde has embarked on several developmental projects and programs, such as free education, health care, infrastructure, agriculture, and youth empowerment.

He has also been praised for his transparency and accountability, as he regularly publishes his assets and income, and gives updates on the state’s finances and budget.

The governor has also shown his commitment to the rule of law and democracy, as he respects the autonomy and independence of the judiciary and the legislature, and supports the electoral process and the rights of the citizens.

Governor Makinde has been described by many as a visionary and progressive leader, who is determined to make Oyo state a model of good governance and development in Nigeria and Africa.

Source: Business Day