Concerns Rise Over Toxic Gas Emissions in Ijebu-Ode
Residents of Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu-Igbo, and Ago-Iwoye are in distress as a noxious gas odour spreads across schools, triggering health concerns for students and prompting school closures. The Ogun State government is investigating the source of what has been identified as methane.
Students from various schools have suffered symptoms including faintness, breathing difficulties, dizziness, nausea, headaches, and abdominal pain. Praise, a 15-year-old student, returned to hospital after being exposed to the gas, complaining of lasting weakness and chest pain. Her mother, Mrs. Olorunye Idayat, expressed frustration over the recurring incidents, noting that her daughter has faced similar issues multiple times over the past few weeks.
The issue seems to stem from emissions related to underground fault lines, which have struck the schools several times since April. This includes an incident on April 1 when 30 students and a teacher were hospitalised after a gas leak at Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School. Subsequent leaks in May and June also led to multiple hospitalisations, raising alarms regarding air quality in the area.
On Wednesday, a similar incident forced the evacuation of students from schools including Anglican Girls Grammar School and Itamerin Comprehensive High School. A total of 95 students were reportedly treated for gas-related symptoms at the State Hospital in Ijebu-Ode, with many needing oxygen to recover.
Parents have voiced their concerns, stressing the need for a lasting solution to the problem. Mrs. Yetunde Joseph highlighted the fear of unknown long-term health effects, while Adetayo Adegbenro of the Ijebu-Ode Parents Forum urged the government to strengthen measures against the emissions.
The state’s Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, confirmed that methane and other gases have been detected in the area, and investigations are ongoing. The Commissioner explained that while such gas emissions are linked to geological features beneath the ground, immediate steps are being taken to address community safety needs. He also assured that residents would receive government support for medical care related to gas exposure.
As the situation develops, officials have advised residents to prepare for the possibility of future incidents and have put measures in place to respond, including the availability of ambulances for emergencies. The government is working with experts to determine the exact source of the emissions, while emphasising the importance of community cooperation and calm.
