Victims of the Bodija explosion have demanded fairer compensation following recent government disclosures.
The Oyo State Government revealed that N30bn intervention funds remain largely untouched.
The Federal Government released the funds after the January 16, 2024 explosion in Ibadan.
Consequently, affected residents expressed frustration over delays and uneven compensation distribution.
Previously, the Federal Government approved N50bn for Bodija reconstruction and victim support.
However, the state disclosed that only N30bn had been released so far.
The government also confirmed that the remaining N20bn is still outstanding.
Meanwhile, Oyo State said it spent over N24bn from its own resources.
Despite these claims, victims insist compensation remains inadequate and unfair.
Some residents reported total property loss yet received minimal financial support.
Others outside the explosion’s core area reportedly received significantly higher payments.
As a result, victims are calling for transparency and immediate fund redistribution.
Several affected residents said they borrowed money to rebuild damaged homes.
Many now struggle with loan repayments and rising interest rates.
Others have not begun reconstruction due to insufficient funds.
Therefore, victims want immediate access to the untouched N30bn intervention fund.
Community leaders also demanded the inclusion of previously excluded victims.
They argued that funding shortages were wrongly used to deny compensation earlier.
According to residents, houses beyond 500 metres were still damaged.
Yet authorities excluded them from the approved compensation list.
Additionally, injured victims and vulnerable elderly residents reportedly received no direct support.
Families who lost loved ones also faced bureaucratic delays and unresolved payment issues.
Residents emphasized that relief funds should prioritize human suffering over political disputes.
Ultimately, victims urged the government to act swiftly and fairly.
They believe proper disbursement will restore trust and support long-term recovery efforts.
