Ogun Police confirm harmful chemical incident under control in Ijebu-Ode, many hospitalized

Crime Diary

IJEBU-ODE, Nigeria (NPA) — The Ogun State Police Command has assured residents of Ijebu-Ode that the harmful chemical emission reported along the Agoro/Okunowa Road axis on 15 May 2026 has been contained, with no fatalities recorded.

According to a statement by DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, Police Public Relations Officer, the incident involved suspected methane gas emissions that temporarily affected students and residents in parts of Ijebu-Ode. Patrol operatives received the alert and swiftly mobilised tactical and surveillance teams from Obalende Division, activating emergency response measures to safeguard lives, coordinate evacuations, and maintain public order.

Victims, including students from Our Ladies Grammar School, Anglican Girls Grammar School, Titilayo Agbaje Comprehensive High School, Ifesowapo Comprehensive High School, St. Peter’s Anglican Primary School, and Orphanage Primary School, were promptly evacuated to the General Hospital and nearby private facilities. The Command confirmed that all affected persons are responding positively to treatment.

Preliminary assessments by the State’s Air Quality Monitoring infrastructure revealed elevated methane concentrations in the area. Technical experts and emergency agencies are conducting detailed investigations to determine the source of the emission and assess environmental risks.

Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni directed sustained surveillance operations and intensified security presence around the affected communities to prevent panic and support ongoing evaluations. He urged residents to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and continue lawful activities.

As a precaution, the Command advised residents to avoid open flames or ignition sources in areas where unusual gas odours are perceived and to seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, or respiratory discomfort.

The Police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives and property, pledging continued collaboration with the Ogun State Government and relevant stakeholders to ensure public safety.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and provide timely information through the Command’s emergency lines.

Exposure to methane gas can pose serious health and safety risks, especially in poorly ventilated areas. Although methane itself is not highly toxic, it can displace oxygen in the air and cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, breathing difficulties, unconsciousness and, in extreme cases, suffocation.

Methane is also highly flammable and can trigger explosions or fires when exposed to heat or sparks.

Health experts advise residents in affected communities to avoid open flames near suspected leak sites, ensure proper ventilation in homes and enclosed spaces, report unusual gas odours or leakages to authorities immediately, and evacuate areas where gas concentration is suspected to be high.