Ogun Govt allays fears over Ijebu gas odour, says situation under control

The Ogun State Government has reassured residents that the situation involving the offensive gaseous odour in the Ijebu region is currently being managed effectively. Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, confirmed this on Wednesday following reports of several secondary school students being hospitalized due to exposure to the odour in Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu-Igbo, and Ago-Iwoye.

Initial assessments saw over 30 students treated at the General Hospital, with others being admitted to various medical facilities, experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, stomach issues, and drowsiness. Post-evaluation, most students were discharged, though a few remained under observation.

The government's visit included a tour of the Ijebu-Igbo Girls Grammar School, where findings suggested that the odour was not confined to school premises, as it was also reported by residents in adjacent areas. Additionally, officials from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission paid a visit to the scene for their own assessment.

This incident has reignited discussions about recurrent odour episodes in Ijebu-Ode since April 2026. The State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, initially attributed these emissions to a natural geological phenomenon linked to underground gas and tectonic fault lines, dismissing any possibility of sabotage or a gas pipeline leak.

However, the recent widespread impact has necessitated a broader investigation to pinpoint the source and understand the factors contributing to the symptoms. Authorities are urging residents to remain composed while they continue to monitor the health condition of those affected.