By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
Oyo State government has allayed fears of the people of Igbeti in Olorunsogo Local Government Area (LGA) of the state over the mountain disruption that occured at the weekend.
According to a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, on Tuesday, June 10, the government said it has started immediate evaluation of the situation and, therefore, called on residents to remain calm.
Oyelade said experts from the state Solid Mineral Development Agency (OYSMIDA), under its Director-General, Mr. Biodun Oni, had been dispatched to the site.
The Commissioner explained: “The disruption is a result of physical weathering on the rock caused by intense heat from February to May early this year, followed by sudden cooling.
“This expansion and contraction lead to cracking, peeling and sheeting, resulting in minor tremors and rock movements as witnessed over the weekend.”
He added that government was also working with experts from the University of Ibadan (UI) to analyse the geological activity and provide solutions to mitigate future occurrences and also develop strategies to safeguarding lives and property in the affected area.
He assured residents that there was no cause for alarm, emphasising that no casualty had been recorded in the incident.
“However, as a precautionary measure, individuals residing near the rock should evacuate temporarily until a permanent solution is reached,” he counseled.
He said government remained committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens, adding that “we will continue to prioritise public safety and give updates as investigations progress.”
