Truck driver Joseph Alao, 24, recounts the harrowing experience of his elder brother, Oluwatobiloba Segun Alao, 27, who fell victim to the Ibadan explosion. Oluwatobiloba, a wristwatch company distributor, narrowly escaped death when he returned to his office to retrieve a forgotten document just moments before the explosion.
Upon receiving a call from Oluwatobiloba’s girlfriend, Joseph rushed to the scene with his family. Amidst the chaos and dust, they found Oluwatobiloba injured and bleeding by the estate gate. Overwhelmed with distress, Joseph nearly fainted, and their mother’s condition worsened. Despite the challenges, they transported Oluwatobiloba to the family hospital with the help of their grandfather’s vehicle.
The family faced a financial hurdle for medical expenses, but assistance came through the intervention of the state government and the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Edward Ogundoyin. Grateful for the support, Joseph describes how the community expressed sympathy but hasn’t provided specific aid.
Oluwatobiloba’s recovery journey includes memory loss about the incident, body aches, and diminished appetite. Despite these challenges, signs of improvement are evident. Joseph appeals for assistance in covering energy and bone bills, replacing a broken phone, and recovering lost goods.
The incident has disrupted Joseph’s life as a truck driver, emphasizing the fragility of life and deepening his humility. Instead of straining their relationship, it has brought him and his brother closer. Oluwatobiloba, a silent achiever, was working towards launching a barbershop and completing his Higher National Diploma. Joseph hopes the incident won’t negatively impact their family emotionally and financially.
He advises others facing similar challenges to stand by their loved ones, offering support through prayers and assistance. Despite the hardships, Joseph remains hopeful for his brother’s future, believing that the incident will draw their family closer to God.
