Ogun State and FG Investigate Ongoing Gas Leaks in Ijebu-Ode

The Ogun State Government and the Federal Government have started a joint investigation into repeated methane gas leaks in Ijebu-Ode and nearby areas. This follows four reported incidents that have worried local residents.

PUNCH Metro learned on Wednesday that a group of experts from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, along with development partners, is looking into the situation. They aim to find out where the gas is coming from and suggest ways to stop it from happening again.

The state government shared this news in a statement on Tuesday, signed by Kayode Akinmade, the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun.

The statement revealed that the team, led by the NUPRC Deputy Director Omonedo Prosper, is studying the emission patterns and possible sources of the gas. This follows initial briefings from state officials about what has been done so far.

Residents have reported strong unpleasant smells in their communities. This has raised fears about possible health risks and environmental damage.

The statement also said that the NUPRC team is ready to collaborate with the state government and other agencies to find the cause of the emissions. They want to create a long-term solution.

Akinmade stated that the state government is committed to sharing the investigation results quickly. They plan to put in place preventive measures and offer health support to affected communities.

He mentioned Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu East, Odogbolu, and other areas in Ogun East as needing attention as investigations and monitoring continue.

"We believe that working with the Federal Government and research institutions is key. The Ogun State Government is determined to follow the recommendations of the investigating team once their work is done. We will take real steps to make sure these emissions do not happen again," he said.

The government assured residents that their safety is a priority. They will continue to work with federal agencies and technical experts until the issue is fully resolved.

Earlier, Professor Ikhane Phillips, the Head of the Department of Earth Sciences at Olabisi Onabanjo University, explained that geochemical tests will help identify the gas's makeup and source. Geophysical studies will clarify where the gas comes from underground.

He noted that results from site inspections and lab tests will guide the right actions to take.

In the same vein, the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, mentioned that the state is closely collaborating with the Federal Government to tackle the situation. He called for better information sharing to address public worries and advised residents on safety measures during bad odour periods. He reassured them that the gas is not dangerous.

Meanwhile, Ijebu Para’po Info Media praised Abiodun and the NUPRC for their efforts to resolve the ongoing emissions. The group commended the state government for listening to residents and working with relevant authorities. They expressed hope that the investigation would lead to a permanent fix.

PUNCH Metro reported that the October gas leak affected over 100 students, who were taken to the hospital after breathing in a harmful gas. These students were treated at the State Hospital in Ijebu-Ode, the General Hospital in Ijebu-Igbo, and other facilities.

The schools most affected included Ijebu-Igbo Girls Grammar School, Anglican Girls Grammar School in Ijebu-Ode, and Itamerin Comprehensive High School in Ago-Iwoye.