Panic swept through several communities along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in Oluyole Local Government Area, Oyo State, on Tuesday night after a powerful explosion at Eminent Quarry sent shockwaves through homes, hospitals, and businesses.
The blast occurred around 7:50 pm, violently shaking buildings in neighbourhoods surrounding the quarry, located beside the Senator Rashidi Ladoja Government Reserved Area (GRA) and near Aramed Hospital. Residents, fearing an attack or major disaster, rushed into the streets for safety.
Communities affected include Orisunmibare, Ekefa, Ajayi, Aba Elebolo, Aba Ekefa, Aba Ajao, areas around Aramed Hospital, and corporate establishments close to the quarry. Eyewitnesses described the explosion as sudden and terrifying, likening it to an earthquake or bomb.
“Our buildings shook as if an earthquake had struck. Many of us ran out of our houses in fear, thinking Nigeria was under a terrorist attack,” a resident of Orisunmibare said.
Another resident criticised the timing and location of the blasting, noting it occurred late in the evening in a densely populated area. “This is not just noise pollution; it is a direct threat to human life. Children, the elderly and patients at Aramed Hospital—everyone was terrified,” the resident added.
Community leaders described Eminent Quarry’s operations as incompatible with human habitation, alleging that blasting has continued without adequate regulation, community consultation, or adherence to safety standards. They argued that the proximity to residential areas and a major hospital poses unacceptable risks.
Medical personnel also raised concerns about the health implications, warning that panic induced by the blast could worsen conditions for patients with heart disease, hypertension, and anxiety disorders. “The fear alone can be fatal for some patients,” a healthcare worker said, noting that repeated blasting could have long-term psychological and physical effects.
Residents and community representatives called on the Oyo State Government, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, and emergency agencies to intervene urgently. They demanded an immediate assessment of the quarry’s compliance with safety and environmental regulations and urged a suspension of further blasting until a thorough inquiry is completed.
“We are not opposed to legitimate business,” a community spokesperson said. “But no company has the right to operate in a manner that turns peaceful communities into war zones. Human lives must come first.”
Residents warned that continued inaction by authorities could escalate tensions, emphasising that their demands centre on safety, accountability, and respect for human life. They stated that the quarry’s activities have become a source of fear rather than economic benefit for neighbouring communities.
According to residents, Eminent Quarry has carried out highly unregulated blasting activities along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway beside Aramed Hospital, often without prior notice. “The latest evening blast caused widespread panic, with residents fearing a war-like situation,” a community leader said, highlighting urgent concerns about public safety and regulation.
As of press time, Eminent Quarry had not issued a public statement regarding the incident. Community members insisted that authorities act decisively to prevent recurrence, stressing that proactive regulation and enforcement are critical to safeguarding lives and restoring public confidence in the area.
