IBADAN – Ten students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, were rushed to Adeoyo State Hospital and University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, on Tuesday after inhaling a poisonous gas in the institution’s laboratory.
The affected students, all from the Department of Science Laboratory Technology, were about to receive a lecture when a quarrel broke out between two students. Amid attempts to mediate, one of the students reportedly sprayed a gaseous substance into the hall, causing ten students to lose consciousness.
Swift Government Response
Following a distress call, the Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, visited the hospital to assess the students’ condition. She urged the school’s management to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure those responsible face justice.
She was accompanied by:
• Dr. Akintunde Ayinde – Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Ministry of Health
• Dr. Adekunle Aremu – Director of Secondary Health Care and Training
• Dr. (Mrs.) Kehinde Oyebode – Director of Nursing Services
• Mrs. Afusat Akande – Director of Food, Water, and Laboratory Services
• Members of the Rapid Response Team
School Management Reacts
The Acting Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Taiwo Lasisi, commended the Oyo State Government for its quick response, vowing to identify and punish the perpetrators.
Meanwhile, the Acting Registrar, Adewumi Ogunjimi, confirmed that the school had officially requested an emergency medical response from the Oyo State Ministry of Health. In a letter to the commissioner, the institution stated:
“Some students receiving lectures were found to have inhaled an indeterminable substance, making them weak and dazed. Immediate and proactive steps were taken, including evacuating the entire area. Some affected students are currently receiving medical care at the institution’s health center.”
The school also urged the health ministry to conduct an on-the-spot assessment and take necessary actions.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing.