Residents of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, panicked again on Wednesday after another suspected gas leak at Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School, Epe Garage, leaving dozens of pupils and staff members in need of medical attention.
The victims were transported to the General Hospital in Ijebu-Ode after complaining of breathing difficulties, weakness, and other symptoms associated with gas exposure.
The latest incident is the third reported case of a mysterious gas leak in the area in two months, raising concerns about the potential health risks to residents.
The first incident, which occurred in April, reportedly hospitalized over 40 students, while another leak in May injured approximately 100 kids and required medical assistance.
The Ogun State Government previously announced, through the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, that monitoring equipment put in the region identified methane gas as the most likely source of the emissions.
A local, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, stated that the most recent occurrence occurred during school hours, when pupils and teachers detected a strong foul scent on school grounds.
“The gas leak occurred during school hours, and students and teachers suddenly noticed a pungent smell that caused discomfort, breathing difficulties, and panic.
“Some of the affected students and staff were taken to the General Hospital, Ijebu-Ode, for treatment. A number of them were still receiving medical attention as of Wednesday. The common complaints were weakness, discomfort, and, in some cases, loss of consciousness.
“The government must urgently get to the root of this problem. This is the third incident in two months, and residents are becoming increasingly worried about the health implications,” the resident said.
Oresanya confirmed the incident and said the state government had identified the source of the gas leak.
“Yes, I am aware of the incident. Through our installed monitoring devices, we have detected the source of the gas emission. The leakage is coming from behind Our Lady of Apostles School, Ijebu-Ode,” he said.
The commissioner stated that the government was taking the appropriate steps to resolve the situation and prevent future incidents.
Meanwhile, John Eko, the National Coordinator of the Food and Farmers Rights Campaign, urged Governor Dapo Abiodun to find a permanent solution to the reoccurring gas leak.
Eko highlighted the most recent event as disturbing and voiced concern about the potential long-term health effects on inhabitants exposed to the fumes.
“It is disturbing that this mysterious gas leak has occurred again for the third time in two months. No one can accurately determine the damage prolonged exposure may be causing to the health of residents.
“We appeal to the government to deploy every available resource to identify the cause and provide a permanent solution. ” The safety and well-being of the people must remain a priority,” he said.
