The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun State Joint Campus Committee (JCC), has called for urgent government intervention and a comprehensive investigation into the suspected toxic gas incident around Our Lady’s Apostles School in Ijebu-Ode.
The students’ body expressed concern over reports that several students and residents were allegedly exposed to harmful substances, resulting in breathing complications, panic and emergency hospitalisations.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Chairman of NANS Ogun JCC, Comrade Tijani Habeebullahi Adekunle, the association described the incident as a serious public safety and environmental concern requiring immediate attention from relevant authorities.
The statement noted that the development had raised fresh concerns about environmental safety, emergency preparedness and the protection of lives within school environments and surrounding communities.
According to the association, educational institutions must remain safe and conducive for learning, stressing that students’ safety should never be compromised under any circumstance.
NANS Ogun JCC called on the Federal Ministry of Environment, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Ogun State Ministry of Health and other environmental and emergency response agencies to immediately launch a transparent and scientific investigation into the incident.
The association also urged the government to conduct urgent environmental assessments, air quality evaluations and public health inspections within Ijebu-Ode and adjoining communities to prevent a recurrence.
“The silence or delay of responsible authorities in situations of this magnitude can create fear, uncertainty and public distrust. We therefore demand timely public updates, credible communication and proactive emergency response measures capable of protecting lives and restoring public confidence,” the statement said.
NANS Ogun JCC further expressed solidarity with affected students, parents, school authorities and residents, while praying for the speedy recovery of those receiving medical attention.
The association added that it would continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure necessary measures are taken to safeguard students and the public.
