A suspected chemical odour caused panic across schools in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, after more than 90 students reportedly developed breathing difficulties, fainted, or vomited following exposure to an unidentified substance.
According to a report by The Guardian Nigeria, the incident affected students around the Epe Garage area of Ijebu-Ode, with emergency responders rushing victims to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities said the strange odour spread through parts of the affected school environment during school hours, triggering confusion among students and teachers as several pupils suddenly became weak and collapsed.
Earlier reports identified Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School as one of the worst-hit schools, where dozens of students and teachers were hospitalised after inhaling the substance.
Officials of the Ogun State Ministry of Environment and emergency agencies were deployed to investigate the source of the chemical odour, while air quality assessments and environmental tests commenced in the affected areas.
Dapo Abiodun ordered an immediate investigation into the incident and directed security agencies and environmental officials to identify the source of the suspected gas leak. The governor also approved free medical treatment for affected residents and students at the General Hospital in Ijebu-Ode.
The state government said no deaths had been recorded, while most of the affected students were reported to be in stable condition. Authorities also temporarily shut affected schools as a precautionary measure pending the outcome of investigations.
