No evidence of criminal activity in Ogun schools' gas leaks, says Commissioner

Mr. Ola Oresanya, the Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, stated that investigations have found no evidence of criminal activity behind the recurring gas leaks in Ijebu-Ode schools. Over the past two months, more than 200 students have required medical attention due to these incidents. Initial suspicions of industrial activity were ruled out as Ijebu-Ode is not a heavily industrialized area. The commissioner also dismissed the idea that local insecticide production was the cause due to the distance from affected schools. Air monitoring systems installed after the first incident detected methane with high sulfide levels. The gas was found to be concentrated in specific areas, with one school section showing high readings while another 200 meters away showed zero. The incidents occurred simultaneously in multiple schools and residential areas along a geological fracture line. Experts, including geologists and geophysicists from various universities, are collaborating with the Federal Ministry responsible for gas to determine if the leaks are due to tectonic activity or quarrying operations. Historical records indicate a significant earth tremor in Ijebu-Ode in 1984 and a fault line running through the town, which aligns with current findings. The commissioner advised residents to soak a handkerchief in water and place it over their nose if they detect the gas again, as it appears to have a strong affinity for oxygen and can cause suffocation. He also addressed public specu