Ogun chemical leak school incident prompts investigation after dozens fall ill, with government officials visiting Ijebu-Ode to assess the situation

Ogun State Government has launched an investigation into a suspected chemical leak at Our Lady of Apostle Primary School in Ijebu-Ode, following an incident that left dozens of students and teachers hospitalised after exposure to a strange odour.

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Ogun chemical leak school incident prompted immediate intervention after a chemical-like smell was reportedly detected on the school premises last week, shortly after morning assembly, causing breathing difficulties among pupils and staff.

Ogun State Commissioner for Environment Ola Oresanya, alongside the General Manager of the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency, Kehinde Bello, visited the school on Tuesday to assess the situation and coordinate the state’s response.

According to school officials, the situation escalated when several students began vomiting and fainting, leading to emergency medical evacuation.

A total of 30 students and two teachers were admitted to the State General Hospital in Ijebu-Ode for treatment.

Vice Principal Mrs. Adeola Borogun confirmed that the school management promptly contacted emergency services after the symptoms became widespread, necessitating urgent medical attention for affected individuals.

In response to the incident, Governor Dapo Abiodun ordered the immediate closure of the school and directed a full-scale investigation to determine the source of the suspected leak and prevent any recurrence.

During the visit, Kehinde Bello also inspected a neighbouring institution, Sacred Heart Catholic College, as part of efforts to evaluate potential risks in the surrounding environment and reassure school authorities of the government’s commitment to safety.

He later visited the State Hospital in Ijebu-Ode, where some of the affected students are still receiving medical care. Authorities say the visit was aimed at monitoring their condition and ensuring proper treatment.

The state government has assured residents that investigations are ongoing, with environmental and safety measures being prioritised to protect public health.

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Officials emphasised that necessary steps would be taken once the cause of the incident is fully established.