Ogun closes schools after more than 100 pupils fall ill

Abiodun disclosed that gas analysers had been installed in affected schools after the initial occurrence, while preliminary findings indicated that methane might be involved.

In June, the governor said investigators were examining the possibility of geological factors contributing to the emissions.

“Preliminary findings suggest there may be geological factors involved, possibly fault lines common to these locations, which could be responsible for the emissions,” he said.

“We are awaiting the final report from the professionals handling the investigation.”

The governor’s statement indicated that the investigation had not concluded at the time.

When contacted on Wednesday, the state Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, said the government was on top of the situation.

Kehinde Bello, the governor’s Senior Special Assistant and General Manager of the Ogun State Environmental Agency, also visited affected areas in Ijebu-Ode and Ijebu-Igbo following the latest occurrence.

Bello linked the incident to underground gas emissions previously recorded in the area, saying the situation was under control and assuring residents that the government would work towards finding a lasting solution.

He said investigations had indicated that the phenomenon was a natural occurrence associated with geological and tectonic fault lines rather than sabotage or a gas pipeline leak.

However, the precise source of the emissions remains a key concern, with residents awaiting the outcome of the investigation and further clarification from the authorities.

Residents Await Lasting Solution

Bello urged residents to remain calm, adding that affected pupils were expected to recover after receiving medical attention.

He also advised residents exposed to the odour to cover their noses and mouths with wet handkerchiefs rather than wear nose masks.

The advice came as medical personnel continued attending to affected pupils at various hospitals as of the time of filing the report.

The recurring incidents have placed renewed attention on the need to establish the substance’s source, assess the potential risks to people in affected communities and determine what measures are necessary to prevent further exposure.

For parents and teachers, the repeated hospitalisations have raised concerns about the safety of school environments and the possibility of further disruptions to academic activities.

The government’s investigation, involving environmental, health, regulatory and geological authorities, is expected to help clarify the cause of the emissions.

Until the source is conclusively established and effective preventive measures are implemented, the recurring incidents are likely to remain a major concern for schools and residents in the affected parts of Ogun State.