Ogun relocates students as methane gas scare hits Ijebu-Ode school

The Ogun State Government has temporarily moved students of Our Lady of Apostles Girls Grammar School, Ijebu-Ode, to another location following a chemical inhalation incident that has raised fresh environmental concerns within the area.

Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the decision during a visit to the school, where he inspected the affected site and received updates from officials handling the investigation. According to him, preliminary assessments have identified methane gas in the vicinity.

He explained that the relocation was necessary to protect students, teachers and other members of the school community while specialists carry out detailed studies to determine the source of the contamination.

Abiodun said the state government is working with the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Health, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority and the Department of Geology at Olabisi Onabanjo University to establish the cause of the recurring incidents.

“Twice now, we have recorded cases of pollution in this school and some neighboring schools.

“What is interesting is that the gas pollution occurred at about the same time in the affected schools—about three schools altogether—and this has happened on two separate occasions.

“Following the first occurrence, we installed gas analyzers across the schools to determine the nature and concentration of the gas, which has now been confirmed to be methane.

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

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

The governor noted that early findings point towards a possible natural phenomenon rather than any deliberate act, although investigations are still ongoing.

He reiterated that his administration would continue to prioritise the safety of residents and ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent a repeat of the incident.

Abiodun also sought to reassure the public that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will keep residents informed as more information emerges.

“In the meantime, we have evacuated the students from the school. The rumor that these incidents are being deliberately targeted at schools is unfounded and should be disregarded. This appears to be a natural occurrence, and we are determined to get to the bottom of it.

“The students have been moved out temporarily, and until we are satisfied that the environment is completely safe and conducive for learning, they will not return. We will continue to investigate the cause of this situation and take all necessary steps to address it,” the governor added.

The temporary relocation will remain in place until experts conclude their investigations and certify the school environment safe for academic activities to resume.