Investigating a poison gas incident, Poly Ibadan suspects sabotage

The management of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, has launched an investigation into the release of an unidentified substance that resulted in the hospitalization of about 10 students on Tuesday.

In a press briefing on Wednesday, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Soladoye Adewole, explained that the incident occurred in a classroom located near the campus’s sewage area. He noted, “There is nothing inherently wrong with that area. It appears to be a deliberate act of sabotage by an unidentified student or group. This classroom is not involved with any chemical activities, and the students are now stable.”

Acting Registrar Adewumi Ogunjimi confirmed that the school’s management has contacted the state’s Commissioner for Health, requesting an emergency medical response. The letter sent to the Commissioner stated:

“We hereby notify the Honourable Commissioner for Health of an emergency situation at the Middle Belt Campus. Some students attending lectures were found to have inhaled an unknown substance, which left them weak and dazed. Immediate measures have been taken, including evacuating the area. Affected students are currently receiving treatment from medical professionals at our health centre. We request that the ministry conduct an on-the-spot assessment and take any necessary actions.”

Additionally, several of the affected students received medical care at Ring Road State Hospital.