The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed that the environmental incident recorded along the Agoro/Okunowa Road axis of Ijebu-Ode on Friday has been brought under control, with no loss of life reported.
According to the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babasẹyi, the incident involved a suspected chemical emission that affected students and residents in parts of Ijebu-Ode, prompting an immediate emergency response by security and health authorities.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police said the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, ordered the immediate deployment of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit and other tactical teams to secure the affected area and support evacuation and emergency operations.
“The situation has since been brought under control, while monitoring and technical assessments continue,” the statement said.
The incident was reportedly discovered after police operatives on patrol received distress information concerning a suspected chemical emission affecting residents and schoolchildren around the area.
Police tactical and surveillance teams from Obalende Division were subsequently mobilised to the affected locations, where emergency procedures were activated to safeguard lives and maintain public order.
Schools affected by the incident included Our Lady’s 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.
According to the Command, victims affected by the emission were evacuated to the General Hospital and private medical facilities within the area for treatment.
“The Command is pleased to confirm that no life was lost, while all affected persons are responding positively to treatment,” the statement added.
Preliminary environmental assessments conducted through the state’s Air Quality Monitoring infrastructure reportedly detected elevated methane gas concentrations within the affected area.
Police said relevant technical experts and emergency response agencies are currently investigating the source of the emission and evaluating 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 evaluations.
Ojajuni assured residents that the area 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.
