The Polytechnic of Ibadan
Ten students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, were rushed to Adeoyo State Hospital and the University College Hospital (UCH) after inhaling a poisonous gas within the institution’s laboratory.
According to reports, the affected students, all from the Department of Science Laboratory Technology, were preparing for a lecture when a minor altercation broke out between two students.
During the commotion, one of the students allegedly released a gaseous substance into the hall, causing ten students to lose consciousness.
Upon receiving the distress call, Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, visited the hospital to assess the students’ condition. She urged the institution’s management to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Reacting to the incident, the Acting Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Taiwo Lasisi, commended the state government’s swift response and assured that the perpetrators would be identified.
Dr. Ajetunmobi was accompanied by top officials from the health ministry, including Permanent Secretary Dr. Akintunde Ayinde, Director of Secondary Health Care and Training Dr. Adekunle Aremu, Director of Nursing Services Dr. Kehinde Oyebode, and Director of Food, Water, and Laboratory Services Mrs. Afusat Akande. Members of the Rapid Response Team were also present.
Confirming the incident, Acting Registrar Adewumi Ogunjimi stated that the school had formally requested an emergency medical response from the state health ministry.
A letter from the institution read:
“Some students receiving lectures were found to have inhaled an indeterminable substance, leaving them weak and disoriented. The institution has taken immediate steps to evacuate the area, and medical personnel are attending to the affected students at the school’s health center. We request urgent intervention from the ministry for an on-the-spot assessment and necessary action.”
The Polytechnic has pledged to get to the root of the incident and ensure the safety of its students.
