Ogun Governor Abiodun Orders Probe into Ijebu-Ode Chemical Gas Incident
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has mandated security agencies to urgently investigate the root cause of a gaseous chemical release in Ijebu-Ode. This incident resulted in the hospitalization of thirty students and two teachers from Our Lady of Apostle Primary and Secondary Schools (OLAS) due to inhalation of the toxic gas.
Government Response and Investigation
On behalf of the governor, Dr Ola Oresanya, the State Commissioner for Environment, announced that the investigation aims to uncover the underlying factors behind the event and provide actionable recommendations to prevent future occurrences. Governor Abiodun has also established a Situation Room at the General Hospital in Ijebu-Ode, offering complimentary medical treatment to additional students and residents in affected areas, including Makalewo, Ogbogbo, Molipa, Igbegba, Ikoto, and Oke-Aje market.
In a move to ensure public safety, the governor has ordered the immediate closure of the impacted schools and urged residents to dismiss any concerns about security threats stemming from the chemical release. He emphasized the state's commitment to addressing the situation promptly and effectively.
On-Ground Assessments and Safety Measures
Concurrently, Ogun State Safety Officials and the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) have dispatched gas analysts to trace the origin of the gas. Commissioner Oresanya, accompanied by Ijebu-Ode Local Council Chairman Dare Alebiosu and Permanent Secretaries Dr Kafayat Lawal (Environment) and Mrs Oluwatosin Oloko (Education), visited the schools and the General Hospital where the affected individuals are receiving care.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Oresanya reported that all thirty students and two teachers are in stable condition, providing reassurance to the community. The collaborative efforts underscore the state's proactive approach to managing the crisis and safeguarding public health.
