By Rukevwe odeh

The Ogun State Government has intensified efforts to tackle the recurring gas emission incidents affecting schools and communities in Ijebu-Ode by bringing together a team of earth science specialists and oil and gas industry experts to determine the root cause of the problem and provide long-term solutions.

The move follows a series of methane-related incidents that disrupted academic activities and led to the hospitalization of several students and teachers in parts of Ijebu-Ode. The unusual gas emissions, first noticed earlier this year, caused symptoms such as dizziness, breathing difficulties, nausea, and fainting among those exposed.

According to the state government, preliminary investigations indicate that the emissions may be linked to underground geological activities. Environmental monitoring conducted in affected areas revealed elevated methane concentrations, prompting authorities to launch a comprehensive scientific investigation.

Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, explained that the government has assembled experts from the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors of the petroleum industry, alongside geologists and environmental scientists, to conduct extensive studies on the phenomenon. The experts are expected to examine subsurface formations, fault lines, and other geological factors that could be contributing to the release of gas from beneath the earth’s surface.

He noted that investigations have already ruled out several potential sources and narrowed the focus to underground geological formations that appear to connect the affected locations. Authorities are also evaluating whether human activities, including quarry operations and other industrial processes, may be contributing to the situation.

The state government has assured residents that public safety remains its top priority. As part of precautionary measures, continuous air-quality monitoring has been introduced in vulnerable areas, while emergency response teams remain on standby to respond to any future incidents. Schools within the affected zones have also been advised to implement safety protocols and maintain close communication with health and environmental agencies.

Environmental experts have warned that methane, while not highly toxic in open spaces, can pose serious risks when present in large concentrations. Besides reducing oxygen levels and causing respiratory discomfort, methane is highly flammable and contributes significantly to climate change as a potent greenhouse gas.

Residents have welcomed the government’s intervention but are calling for swift action to prevent further disruptions to education and daily life. Many parents expressed concern over the repeated incidents, urging authorities to provide clear information and implement permanent solutions before schools fully resume normal operations.

As investigations continue, the Ogun State Government has pledged to keep the public informed of its findings and recommendations. Officials believe that a combination of scientific research, environmental monitoring, and collaboration with industry experts will help identify the source of the emissions and prevent future occurrences, ensuring the safety of students, teachers, and residents across the affected communities.