The Ogun State Government and the Federal Government have intensified investigations into recurring methane gas emissions in Ijebu-Ode and neighbouring communities, assuring residents of efforts to find a lasting solution.
The development follows four reported incidents of gas emissions in Ijebu-Ode and its environs, which have caused persistent unpleasant odours and raised concerns about possible health and environmental consequences.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, and signed by Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, the state government disclosed that a joint team of experts from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and development partners had commenced investigations.
The team, led by NUPRC Deputy Director Omonedo Prosper, is examining the emission patterns and possible sources of the gas following preliminary briefings by state government officials.
The investigation is expected to establish the origin of the emissions and recommend measures to prevent further occurrences.
Ogun promises lasting solution
According to the state government, the NUPRC delegation has expressed its readiness to work with Ogun State and other relevant agencies to determine the cause of the emissions and develop a sustainable solution.
Akinmade said the government was committed to making the investigation’s findings available promptly, implementing preventive measures and providing necessary health support and monitoring for affected communities.
He identified Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu East and Odogbolu, alongside other communities across Ogun East, as areas requiring continued attention.
“We believe that collaboration with the Federal Government and research institutions is crucial. The Ogun State Government is resolute in its decision to implement the recommendations of the investigating team once investigations are concluded and to take concrete steps to ensure that the emissions do not recur,” he said.
The government also assured residents that their safety and well-being remained a priority, pledging to sustain collaboration with federal agencies and technical experts until the matter was comprehensively addressed.
Experts examine possible sources of emissions
Earlier, Professor Ikhane Phillips, Head of the Department of Earth Sciences at Olabisi Onabanjo University, explained that geochemical analysis would help determine the composition and source of the gas.
He said geophysical investigations would also establish its possible underground origin and movement.
According to him, findings from ongoing site inspections and laboratory tests would provide the scientific basis for determining appropriate interventions.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, had also disclosed that the government was working closely with the Federal Government to address the situation.
Oresanya called for improved information sharing to address public concerns and advised residents to observe precautionary measures during periods of unpleasant odour.
He also assured residents that the gas was not lethal.
The renewed investigation comes amid repeated reports of methane emissions affecting communities and schools in the Ijebu axis, with previous incidents raising concerns about the safety of students and residents.
The government says it will continue working with relevant authorities and experts to establish the cause and implement measures to prevent further occurrences.
