At least 30 students of Our Lady Apostles Secondary School in Ijebu-Ode have been hospitalised following a suspected gas leak that occurred on Wednesday.
It was gathered that several students and teachers experienced breathing difficulties after fumes—suspected to have come from nearby carbide cylinders spread across the school premises, causing panic within the community.
Ola Oresanya, the state commissioner for environment, confirmed the incident.
Oresanya said the affected students were immediately taken to the general hospital in Ijebu-Ode for treatment.
He noted that most of the students are now in stable condition, with some already discharged, while investigations continue to determine the exact cause of the incident.
“Yes, there was a gas leak around Lady Apostles School in Ijebu Ode. I received the report about two hours ago,” he said.
“Some students were affected, about 30, and they were rushed to the General Hospital in Ijebu Ode. Most of them are now in stable condition, and some have been discharged.”
However, Oresanya stated that no clear evidence of a gas leak had been found in the area.
“As I speak to you, I am in Ijebu Ode with my team. We are trying to trace the source of the gas leak,” he said.
“There is no gas pipeline, gas grid, or industry around the area. Moreover, there is no gas vendor nearby. We suspect there may have been some form of human activity involved.”
The commissioner added that during inspection, officials discovered a nearby bush, which may be linked to the source of the fumes.
“We have combed the entire area, and during our inspection, we discovered a bush not too far from the school. It is possible that some individuals working with metals there were using gas cylinders,” he said.
“Some teachers also confirmed that the odour that filled the school premises smelled like carbide. So, it is possible that a carbide gas cylinder exploded somewhere.”
He urged parents and residents to remain calm, assuring that more details would be provided as investigations progress.