The Ogun State Government has ordered the closure of schools in Ijebu-Ode, Ago-Iwoye and Ijebu-Igbo after more than 100 pupils were hospitalised on Wednesday following suspected exposure to a harmful gaseous substance.
Affected students were rushed to the State Hospital, Ijebu-Ode, the General Hospital, Ijebu-Igbo, and other facilities for treatment.
Witnesses reported pupils fainting and struggling to breathe, prompting panic among parents and staff.
Among the worst-hit institutions were Ijebu-Igbo Girls Grammar School, Anglican Girls Grammar School in Ijebu-Ode, and Itamerin Comprehensive High School.
Videos circulating online showed students being carried into hospitals as the incident unfolded.
Officials linked the emissions to underground methane gas, a phenomenon previously recorded in the area since April 2026.
Earlier investigations suggested geological fault lines as the likely source, ruling out sabotage or pipeline leaks.
Governor Dapo Abiodun had previously disclosed that gas analysers were installed in affected schools, while ongoing investigations involve the Ministries of Environment and Health, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, and Olabisi Onabanjo University’s Department of Geology.
On Wednesday, Commissioner for Environment Ola Oresanya and Environmental Agency chief Kehinde Bello assured residents the situation was under control.
Bello advised those exposed to cover their noses and mouths with wet handkerchiefs, noting that pupils receiving medical care were expected to recover.
The latest incident marks the fourth occurrence of gas emissions in the Ijebu axis since April, heightening concerns over health risks to schoolchildren and teachers.
Residents continue to demand urgent action and a lasting solution to prevent further exposure.
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