The Oyo State government has allayed the fears of the people of Igbeti in Olorunsogo Local Government over the Iyamopo Hill disruption that occurred last weekend.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, it was said that the government has started immediate evaluation of the situation, calling on the residents to be calm.
According to the Commissioner, experts from the Oyo State Solid Mineral Development Agency (OYSMIDA), under its Director General, Mr. Biodun Oni, had been sent to the site.
Prince Oyelade said: “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 led to cracking, peeling, and sheeting, resulting in minor tremors and rock movements as witnessed over the weekend.”
The Information Commissioner added that the government is also working with experts from the University of Ibadan to analyse the geological activity and provide solutions to mitigate future occurrences.
They are also to help in developing strategies to safeguarding lives and property in the affected area.
He assured the residents, saying that there is no cause for alarm, and that there had been no recorded casualties during the incident.
However, as a precautionary measure, the Commissioner urged individuals residing near the rock to evacuate temporarily until a permanent solution is reached.
He said that government remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens, adding: “We will continue to prioritise public safety and give updates as investigations progress.”
