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Echoes of Tragedy: Ibadan Blast and the Ongoing Struggle in Palestine

Pain, panic, and pressure are less far-fetched words that have described the condition of the People of Palestine for years on radio, TV, and in broadcast reports, courtesy of the inhumane treatment experienced at the hands of the Israeli-led dictatorial government. As much as people sympathize with these victims, all that majority could do has not been beyond words, sympathy which included financial aid, international demonstrations, and the recent laudable movement spearheaded by a body of lawyers in South Africa. But the real question is who exactly can feel Palestinians’ ordeal and plight as much as they do. None, because no one wish to be in their shoes. Death of family members and distant neighbours are nothing shocking to them neither is the sound of sophisticated bombs dropped incessantly in rural and urban communities.

But a similar, even the word could be inappropriate in this context, was experienced in Ibadan last week during the late hours of Tuesday 16th February 2024 when a loud ground-shaking sound was felt across various axes in Oyo state’s capital. Investigation however revealed that this incident was perpetrated by some heinous individuals who stored some illegal explosives – dynamites – in Adeyi residential area.

While everyone has condemned this act, particularly because of the toll of death and casualties counted, few, nevertheless have tried to view this unfortunate incident in the light of similar occurrences, if not even worse, across international communities. And when discussion about massive explosions comes to mind, even a toddler would easily mention Palestine.

Nothing is glorifying about making an analogical examination of sad incidents like that of Adeyi and Palestine, however, these occurrences call for deep reflection from those who can reason beyond the superficial. If a larger part of Ibadan could be alarmed and frightened for days by just a single incident of massive explosion, then one can only imagine the plight a Palestinian child experience everyday. At least no fewer than 250 Palestinians lose their lives per day with many more lives at risk from hunger, disease, and cold as reported by OXFAM International.

Beneath this whole comparison are lessons to be learned. As of the moment, no evidence has surfaced that the Adeyi, Old Bodija explosion was advertent. That is, perhaps if it was like what is obtainable in Gaza where every single grenade and bullet is shot with criminally motivated intentions, then more than half of Ibadan’s population would have been displaced. Simply put, actions fueled by criminal motives are always more ravaging and deadlier as evident in the land of Gaza.

Just as Israel, a foreign country became a clog in the lives of Palestinians, the recent explosion according to a verified report was caused by people who are identified not to be Nigerians. Could it be that foreigners lack the patriotism that indigenous residents possess? Could it be that allowance of immigration has grievous consequences? Your thoughts are as good as ours.