The government of Ogun State has clarified that the frequent gas leaks in Ijebu-Ode are the result of natural underground geological activity rather than supernatural causes. This issue has led to the hospitalization of at least 200 individuals, including students and staff from institutions like Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School and Anglican Girls Grammar School.
Governor Dapo Abiodun previously ordered the temporary relocation of students from Our Lady of Apostles to ensure their safety while experts investigate the origin of the emissions. During a recent town hall meeting, Commissioner for Environment Ola Oresanya explained that testing confirmed the presence of methane and sulphide gases. These emissions are escaping from the Ifewara-Zungeru fault line, a deep underground fracture that stretches through several states.
Commissioner Oresanya noted that the affected schools were built on land historically avoided by residents, precisely because of this geological positioning. The government is now conducting further analysis to determine if these leaks are thermogenic or methanogenic and to assess if a larger gas reservoir lies beneath the town.
Health Commissioner Dr. Tomi Coker urged residents to remain calm and advised them to use wet handkerchiefs to cover their noses instead of traditional face masks, which can hinder breathing during such events. Meanwhile, Education Commissioner Abayomi Arigbadu confirmed that schools will resume operations only after thorough consultations with local administrators to ensure the environment is safe for all students.
