Another gas leak at Ogun schools leaves over 100 students hospitalized.

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

A gas leak in Ijebu‑Ode, Ogun State, triggered widespread alarm on Friday after it was reported to have affected more than 100 students and teachers at several local schools, less than two months after a similar incident left dozens hospitalized.

Schools that reported exposure include Anglican Girls’ Grammar School in Obalende, Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School in Epe Garage, and other public schools in the area.

Many of the affected pupils were taken to the Ogun State General Hospital in Ijebu‑Ode and to private medical facilities for urgent care after they complained of stomach pain, dizziness and general weakness.

A video that has gone viral on social media shows students running out of one of the affected schools while teachers try to help pupils who reportedly fainted during the event.

One teacher, who asked for urgent intervention, appealed to the government and to well‑meaning Nigerians for assistance with the affected students.

An eyewitness, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the latest incident was more severe than the one that occurred in the town about two months ago.

“I am presently at the Ogun State Hospital, Ijebu Ode, and I can tell you that the previous gas leak incident is nothing compared to what we are witnessing now,” the source said.

“The hospital is overcrowded with affected students, while some parents have taken their children to private hospitals for treatment. The students are complaining of stomach ache and weakness. Multiple schools were affected, and over 100 students are said to have been impacted.”

State Commissioner for Environment Mr Ola Oresanya confirmed that emergency response measures had been activated to contain the situation and investigate the source of the emission.

“I am aware of the situation, and necessary action is being taken by the Ministry of Education, OGEPA, security agencies and the local government authorities,” Oresanya stated.

It was reported that Ijebu Ode Local Government Chairman Dare Alebiosu and OGEPA Managing Director Mr Kenny Bello were visiting affected areas to assess the situation and ensure victims received adequate medical care.

The state government has urged residents to remain calm and assured them that investigations are underway to identify the source of the gas leak.

In a statement released on Friday, the Commissioner for Environment disclosed that an Air Quality Monitoring Device installed at Ijebu‑Ode Grammar School had detected elevated methane concentrations in the affected areas.

According to Oresanya, the monitoring equipment recorded methane concentration peaks of about 13,500 parts per million (ppm) in surrounding locations.

He explained that the device is part of the state’s environmental surveillance initiative, designed to detect hazardous air conditions early and prompt public health intervention.

“While the recorded methane concentration remains below the lower explosive limit, the level is environmentally significant and requires immediate technical investigation and precautionary response,” he said.

The Commissioner announced that a multi‑agency environmental and public health assessment team—comprising environmental regulators, emergency response personnel and air quality experts—has been activated.

The team is expected to determine the source of the emissions, assess exposure risks and evaluate the presence of other dangerous gases, including hydrogen sulphide, volatile organic compounds and related pollutants.

He advised residents to avoid open flames or ignition sources in areas where unusual gas odours are detected.

“Residents are advised to remain calm and continue their normal activities while avoiding open flames or ignition sources in areas where unusual gas odours are detected,” Oresanya added. “Any symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, nausea or respiratory discomfort should be promptly reported at nearby health facilities.”

The Commissioner assured residents that the Ogun State government remains committed to safeguarding lives, public health and environmental safety, and promised further updates as investigations progress.

It is worth noting that a similar incident occurred almost two months ago at Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School in Old Epe Garage, Ijebu‑Ode, where no fewer than 30 students and a teacher were hospitalized.

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