Ogun school hit by fresh gas leak, scores hospitalised

Panic has gripped Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, following a third suspected gas leak incident at Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School within two months. The latest event on Wednesday saw scores of students and staff members requiring medical attention at the General Hospital, Ijebu-Ode, due to breathing difficulties, weakness, and other symptoms associated with gas exposure.

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The gas leak occurred during school hours, and students and teachers suddenly noticed a pungent smell that caused discomfort, breathing difficulties and panic.

This recurring problem has heightened anxiety among residents. The first incident in April reportedly led to about 40 students being hospitalized, while a subsequent leak in May affected approximately 100 students. The Ogun State Government, through the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, confirmed that monitoring equipment detected methane gas as the probable source of the emissions.

A resident, speaking anonymously, described the latest incident occurring during school hours, with a strong, offensive odor causing immediate discomfort and panic. "Some of the affected students and staff were taken to the General Hospital, Ijebu-Ode, for treatment," the resident stated, emphasizing the need for the government to urgently find the root cause.

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The government must urgently get to the root of this problem. This is the third incident in two months, and residents are becoming increasingly worried about the health implications.

Commissioner Oresanya confirmed awareness of the incident and stated the government has identified the leakage source as originating from behind the school. He assured that necessary steps are being taken to resolve the situation and prevent future occurrences. However, concerns persist regarding the long-term health effects on those repeatedly exposed to the emissions, prompting calls for a lasting solution.

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Yes, I am aware of the incident. Through our installed monitoring devices, we have detected the source of the gas emission. The leakage is coming from behind Our Lady of Apostles School, Ijebu-Ode.