The Ogun State Government has enlisted earth surface and midstream/downstream sector experts to find lasting solutions to gas emissions affecting school premises in the Ijebu-Ode area.
Government Engagement with Experts
Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, disclosed this during an engagement with experts from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and geological experts from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye.
Arigbabu stated that Governor Dapo Abiodun had authorized the move to ensure a lasting solution is reached to prevent future occurrences, leading to the invitation of these professionals.
Previous Measures
He emphasized that the government had already implemented several measures, including the installation of CCTV cameras and air analyzers, bush clearing, perimeter fencing, and deployment of ambulances with paramedics to address gas leakage challenges in affected areas and avoid disruption of the academic calendar.
Reassurance to the Public
The Commissioner assured the public that the government would continue taking further actions to ensure teaching and learning occur in a conducive environment. He urged parents, guardians, learners, and teachers to remain calm and disregard rumors that could escalate tension or panic, as normalcy would soon be restored in the affected schools.
“In continuation of our efforts to tackle the problem of gas emissions, we decided to come with the experts from the NMDPRA, Ministry of Environment, and Earth Science Department of Olabisi Onabanjo University. All these experts are on the field helping us to investigate what happened,” Arigbabu said.
“These experts are in the field following the instructions of the Governor. We have commissioned them to help us look into what is happening, and the preliminary reports indicate that there is a sort of geological infraction which needs further investigation.”
NMDPRA Commitment
Earlier, the State Coordinator of NMDPRA, Dr. Atilola Simeon, expressed appreciation for the value the present administration places on children's lives, particularly learners. He promised to conduct thorough research into the matter and provide a detailed study and technical advice for lasting solutions.
