Child Safety Fears Mount as Repeated Gas Leaks Hospitalize Ogun Students
Repeated gas leak incidents at Our Lady of Apostle Secondary School in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, have intensified concerns over child safety, following the hospitalisation of several students and staff after the latest exposure on Wednesday.
The most recent incident marks the third occurrence in two months, leaving affected persons struggling with breathing difficulties, discomfort and fainting. Several students were taken to the General Hospital, Ijebu-Ode for treatment, with some still receiving care.
Earlier incidents in April and May reportedly led to the hospitalisation of about 30 students and over 100 students and staff respectively, raising questions about the safety of the learning environment and the protection of children in schools within the area.
Child protection advocates warn that repeated exposure of students to hazardous environmental conditions violates their right to safe education and puts their physical and psychological wellbeing at risk. They argue that beyond academic disruption, such incidents can cause long-term health complications, anxiety and fear among learners.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, confirmed that authorities had identified the source of the emissions and activated a multi-agency response team comprising environmental regulators, emergency responders and air quality experts. The team is assessing the extent of exposure and potential health risks linked to gases such as hydrogen sulphide and volatile organic compounds.
Community members and parents have called for urgent and sustained intervention, stressing that schools must be safeguarded as protected spaces for children. They insist that preventive measures are needed to ensure learners are not repeatedly exposed to environmental hazards while pursuing their education.
