FG, Ogun intensify probe into recurring methane emissions in Ijebu-Ode

The Federal and Ogun State governments have intensified investigations into recurring methane emissions in Ijebu-Ode and neighbouring communities, amid growing concerns over persistent unpleasant odours and possible health and environmental consequences.

The latest intervention followed four reported incidents of gas emissions in Ijebu-Ode and its environs, which have continued to raise concerns among residents.

A statement issued by Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, noted that a joint team of experts from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and development partners had commenced investigations to establish the source of the emissions.

The team, led by the commission’s Deputy Director, Mr Omonedo Prosper, is examining the emission patterns and possible sources of the gas following preliminary briefings by state government officials on interventions already undertaken.

According to the statement, the NUPRC delegation expressed its readiness to work with the Ogun State Government and other relevant agencies to determine the cause of the emissions and develop a lasting solution.

Akinmade said the state government would make the findings of the investigation available promptly, implement appropriate preventive measures and provide necessary health support and monitoring for affected communities.

The government maintained that the safety and well-being of residents remained a priority, assuring them that it would sustain engagement with federal agencies and technical experts until the problem was comprehensively addressed.

Earlier, the Head of the Department of Earth Sciences at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Prof Ikhane Phillips, explained that geochemical analysis would help determine the composition and source of the gas, while geophysical investigations would establish its possible underground origin and movement.

He said findings from ongoing site inspections and laboratory tests would provide the scientific basis for determining appropriate interventions.

Similarly, the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, disclosed that the state was working closely with the Federal Government to tackle the situation.

Oresanya also called for improved information sharing to address public concerns and advised residents to observe precautionary measures during periods of unpleasant odour. He also assured residents that the gas was not lethal.