A fresh gas leak incident has reportedly affected several schools in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, leaving more than 100 students and teachers hospitalised.
The incident occurred on Friday and caused panic across affected communities as students were seen rushing out of school premises while teachers and residents scrambled to provide emergency assistance.
Schools reportedly affected include Anglican Girls Grammar School and Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School in Ijebu Ode.
Students Rushed to Hospitals After Gas Leak
Witnesses said many students complained of dizziness, weakness, stomach pain, and breathing difficulties shortly after the strange gas spread around the school environment.
Several affected students were taken to the Ogun State Hospital in Ijebu Ode, while others received treatment at nearby private medical facilities.
Videos circulating online showed emotional scenes as teachers and parents assisted students who reportedly fainted during the incident.
An eyewitness described the situation as more serious than a similar gas leak recorded in the town weeks earlier.
According to the source, hospital facilities became crowded as concerned parents rushed to check on their children.
Ogun Government Confirms Incident
The Ogun State Government confirmed the development through the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya.
Authorities stated that emergency response agencies, environmental officials, and health experts had been deployed to investigate the situation and assist victims.
Officials from the local government, environmental agencies, and security services were also seen visiting affected areas to assess the incident and coordinate medical support.
Elevated Methane Levels Detected
According to the state government, air quality monitoring devices installed in the area detected elevated methane concentrations around parts of Ijebu Ode.
The government explained that although the gas concentration was reportedly below explosive levels, the situation remained environmentally significant and required urgent investigation.
Authorities said further assessments would focus on identifying the exact source of the emissions and determining possible health risks linked to other gases in the environment.
Residents Advised to Remain Calm
Residents have been advised to remain calm while investigations continue.
The government also warned residents to avoid open flames or ignition sources in areas where unusual gas smells are noticed.
People experiencing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, or breathing discomfort were urged to seek medical attention immediately.
Similar Incident Happened Weeks Ago
The latest development comes weeks after another gas leak incident reportedly affected students and staff at a secondary school in Ijebu Ode.
That earlier incident also triggered panic after students reportedly struggled to breathe following exposure to a strange gaseous substance shortly after morning assembly.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to strengthen environmental monitoring and prevent future occurrences.
