Ogun and federal experts investigate recurring methane emissions in Ijebu-Ode

Ogun State and the Federal Government have launched a joint investigation into recurring methane emissions in and around Ijebu-Ode after four reported incidents raised concern among residents, according to statements reported by PUNCH Nigeria and Premium Times. A team led by Omonedo Prosper, deputy director at the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, is examining emission patterns and possible sources of the gas. The investigation is being conducted with development partners and follows briefings by state officials about measures already taken.

The affected area includes Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu East and Odogbolu, as well as other communities in Ogun East. Residents have reported persistent unpleasant odours, prompting concern about possible environmental and health effects. The reports do not establish the source of the emissions or say that investigators have reached a final conclusion.

Professor Ikhane Phillips, head of Earth Sciences at Olabisi Onabanjo University, said geochemical analysis could determine the gas’s composition and source. He said geophysical investigations would be used to study a possible underground origin and the way the gas may be moving. Phillips added that site inspections and laboratory tests would provide the scientific basis for deciding what intervention is appropriate.

The accounts describe the investigation as ongoing, with the federal and state authorities yet to publish its findings. Ogun Commissioner for Environment Ola Oresanya said the state was working with the Federal Government and called for better information-sharing to address public concerns. He advised residents to take precautions during periods when the odour is present and, as reported by both publishers, assured them that the gas was not lethal.

The state government said it would release the investigation’s findings promptly, introduce preventive measures and provide health support and monitoring for affected communities. Special Adviser on Media and Strategy Kayode Akinmade said the government would implement the expert team’s recommendations and continue working with federal agencies and research institutions. PUNCH Nigeria also reported that an October incident affected more than 100 pupils who were reportedly hospitalised after inhaling an offensive gaseous substance.

The pupils were taken to hospitals in Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu-Igbo and elsewhere, with several schools identified as among the worst affected. Ijebu Para’po Info Media praised Governor Dapo Abiodun and the NUPRC for their response and expressed hope that the inquiry would produce a permanent solution. The authorities’ immediate task, however, remains identifying the source and preventing further emissions.