HOW RECURRING GAS EMISSIONS HOSPITALISED OVER 300 IN OGUN

The latest incident occurred on Wednesday, October 21, when an unusual gaseous odour spread through schools in Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu-Igbo and Ago-Iwoye. More than 100 students reportedly required hospital treatment after experiencing breathing difficulties, while some fainted.

Among the affected schools were Anglican Girls Grammar School, Ijebu-Igbo Girls Grammar School and Itamerin Comprehensive High School. Some schools suspended lessons and sent students home as worried parents rushed to collect their children.

A recurring concern

Similar incidents have been reported since April. Earlier reports recorded about 40 students affected in April, more than 120 hospitalised in May and another 69 in June.

Combined with the latest incident, the reported figures exceed 300 hospitalisations. However, an independently verified overall total has not been released.

The repeated disruptions have left school communities anxious, particularly as the emissions continue despite previous investigations.

What the government says

The Ogun State Government said officials visited affected schools and hospitals to assess the situation.

Students experienced symptoms including shortness of breath, stomach discomfort and drowsiness. Some needed oxygen, while others received minor treatment. According to the government, most students at the hospital visited by its assessment team had been discharged, although a few remained under observation.

Officials have previously linked the emissions to underground gases escaping through cracks in the earth. Earlier investigations identified methane and sulphide gases and suggested a connection to natural geological conditions.

Investigations into the latest incident are still ongoing.

Families await a lasting solution

The state government has urged residents to remain calm and assured them that efforts are underway to address the problem.

For parents and teachers, however, the repeated incidents remain unsettling. With children falling ill and lessons being interrupted, families are waiting for clear answers about what is causing the emissions and what will be done to keep their communities safe.