Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The explosion which left about five persons dead and many others hospitalised in Ibadan, capital of Oyo State on Tuesday had also affected properties owned by senior members of the legal profession, especially the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
Among the properties destroyed are those owned by the late Chief Bola Ige, SAN, the late Chief Bandele Aiku SAN, and that of late Governor of Ondo State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN.
Also, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Niyi Akintola, talked on how the same explosion destroyed his hotel and houses belonging to other prominent (dead and alive) Nigerians.
Showing a picture of the damaged property, Chief Akintola wrote, “This is what remains of my modest contributions to hospitality businesses in Ibadanland just after the explosions of last night in Bodija.
“It is a posh hotel in a posh area known as ‘House 40″ on Dejo Oyelese Street. Bodija.
“I recalled that some of our colleagues on this platform who had at one time enjoyed the hospitality of the modest 24 beds which include 8 suites, 3 chalets and 13 standard rooms are Alariwo, Wole Iyamu SAN, H,E. Iyiola Oladokun (whose residence) that shared a fence with my house 40 was completely destroyed.
“My three other properties on Alabiamo Street, Adeyi Street and Adenuga Street were also slightly damaged with removed roof, removed POP ceilings, sliding doors, air-conditioners and several electrical applications.
“Oh my God, it is terrible.
“As I write this with my hands trembling, some guests and three hotel staff are in the hospital but we thank God that no casualty was recorded.
“What a way to start a new year? I need your prayers please”, Chief Akintola pleaded.
The property of late Akeredolu said to have been affected by the explosion is also into hospitality business like that of Chief Akintola.