Ogun State in Nigeria says it is working more closely with Nigeria’s federal government to investigate and address recurring methane emissions in Ijebu-Ode and neighbouring communities. The state says concrete measures are under way to establish the source of the emissions and prevent future occurrences.
Four incidents prompt joint investigation#
The response follows four reported gas emissions in Ijebu-Ode and its surroundings. The emissions have produced a persistent unpleasant odour and raised concern among residents about possible environmental and health implications.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, said a joint team of experts from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), working alongside development partners, has begun investigating the incidents.
The team, led by the Commission’s Deputy Director, Mr. Omonedo Prosper, is examining emission patterns and possible sources of the gas. It is building on preliminary briefings from state government officials about interventions already undertaken.
According to the statement, the NUPRC delegation said it is ready to work with the Ogun State Government and other relevant agencies to establish the cause and develop a sustainable solution.
State pledges findings, prevention and health support#
Akinmade said the state government is committed to releasing the investigation’s findings promptly, implementing appropriate preventive measures, and providing health support and monitoring for affected communities.
He identified the following areas as requiring attention while investigations and monitoring continue:
- Ijebu-Ode
- Ijebu East
- Odogbolu
- Other communities across Ogun East
“We believe that collaboration with the Federal Government and research institutions is crucial. The Ogun State Government is resolute in its decision to implement the recommendations of the investigating team once investigations are concluded and to take concrete steps to ensure that the emissions do not recur,” he said.
The government stressed that the welfare, safety and well-being of residents remain its paramount responsibility. It said it will sustain its engagement with relevant federal agencies and technical experts until the matter is comprehensively addressed.
Scientists outline testing approach#
Following the incidents, the Head of the Department of Earth Sciences at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Professor Ikhane Phillips, explained that geochemical analysis would help determine the composition and source of the gas. Geophysical investigations would establish its possible underground origin and movement.
He noted that findings from ongoing site inspections and laboratory tests would provide the scientific basis for determining appropriate interventions.
Commissioner details coordination and public reassurance#
Ogun State’s Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, had said the state was working closely with Nigeria’s federal government to tackle the situation. He called for improved information sharing to address public concerns and advised residents on precautionary measures during periods of unpleasant odour.
Oresanya also assured residents that the gas was not lethal.
Ijebu Para’po Info Media commended Governor Abiodun and the NUPRC for their intervention and efforts to find a lasting solution to the recurring emissions. The group praised the state government for responding to residents’ concerns and maintaining engagement with relevant authorities, and expressed optimism that the ongoing investigation would produce a permanent solution.
