Governor Dapo Abiodun has ordered the immediate closure of Our Lady of Apostle Primary and Secondary Schools (OLAS) in Ijebu Ode after a gas leak left dozens of students and staff hospitalised.
The incident occurred shortly after a school assembly on Wednesday, when a strange gaseous substance spread across the premises, causing breathing difficulties among students and teachers. Several victims reportedly began vomiting and fainting, prompting an emergency response.
According to the Vice Principal, Mrs Adeola Borogun, the situation escalated quickly after the unusual smell was detected, forcing the school to call for ambulances from the State General Hospital in Ijebu Ode.
The Chief Medical Director, Dr Banjo Adeoye, confirmed that most of the affected individuals are now in stable condition, although authorities are still working to determine the exact substance responsible for the leak.
In response, Governor Abiodun directed security agencies to launch an immediate investigation into the cause of the incident, noting that findings would help prevent a recurrence.
He also ordered the setup of a situation room at the General Hospital, Ijebu-Ode, where free medical care will be provided to affected students and residents in nearby communities.
“Following the unfortunate release of gaseous chemical in Ijebu- Ode hours ago where thirty students and two teachers of our Lady of Apostle Primary and Secondary schools (OLAS) were affected through inhalation of the gas, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has ordered the security agencies in the state to immediately investigate the cause of the incident.
“Governor Abiodun has also directed the immediate opening of a Situation Room at the General Hospital, Ijebu-Ode which will offer free treatment to other students and residents of the impacted areas such as Makalewo, Ogbogbo, Molipa, Igbegba, Ikoto and Oke-Aje market.”
Authorities have reassured residents that there is no broader security threat, adding that environmental officials, including the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency, are using gas analyzers to trace the source of the leak.
Government officials, alongside local authorities, have since visited the affected schools and hospital to assess the situation and ensure proper response measures are in place.
