By our Reporter
The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed that the environmental incident recorded along the Agoro/Okunowa Road axis of Ijebu-Ode on Thursday has been brought under control following swift intervention by security agencies and the Ogun State Government.
The Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, said the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit and other tactical response teams were immediately deployed to secure the affected area, support emergency operations, and ensure public safety.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the incident was reported after patrol operatives received distress information concerning a suspected chemical emission affecting students and residents in parts of Ijebu-Ode.
Following the report, tactical and surveillance teams from the Obalende Division swiftly mobilised to the affected locations and activated emergency response measures, including evacuation procedures and crowd control.
Schools affected by the incident included Our Ladies Grammar School, Epe Garage; Anglican Girls Grammar School, Obalende; Titilayo Agbaje Comprehensive High School, Imosan; Ifesowapo Comprehensive High School, Imosan; St. Peter’s Anglican Primary School, Imosan; and Orphanage Primary School, Imosan.
The police disclosed that affected victims were evacuated to the General Hospital and private medical facilities within the area for treatment.
The Command, however, confirmed that no life was lost and stated that those affected were responding positively to treatment.
Preliminary environmental assessments conducted through the state’s Air Quality Monitoring infrastructure reportedly detected elevated methane gas concentrations within the affected area.
Relevant technical experts and emergency response agencies are currently carrying out detailed investigations to determine the source of the emission and evaluate possible environmental risks.
The Commissioner of Police also directed intensified surveillance and increased security presence around the affected communities to prevent panic and support ongoing technical assessments.
The police assured residents that the situation remains calm and under close monitoring, urging members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing panic.
Residents were also advised to avoid open flames or ignition sources in areas where unusual gas odours are perceived and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, or respiratory discomfort.
The Ogun State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property, adding that it would continue to collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure public safety and environmental security across the state.
