In a shocking incident at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, about 10 students were rushed to government hospitals after inhaling a poisonous gas that caused them to collapse on Tuesday. The incident, which occurred in a lecture hall, has raised concerns about safety and student conduct within the institution.
The Incident and Immediate Response
The students, who are from the Science Laboratory and Technology Department, were seated in their lecture hall after completing a course test when a fight broke out between two individuals. Eyewitnesses reported that as others attempted to intervene and stop the altercation, an unknown choking substance was released into the air. It is alleged that one of the students involved in the fight sprayed the substance, which quickly spread, causing several students to collapse and others to lose consciousness.
The Oyo State Government acted swiftly upon receiving a distress call about the incident. The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, led an emergency response team to the scene. The affected students were immediately evacuated and transported to two major hospitals in the state: Ring Road State Hospital and the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan.
Medical Intervention and Stabilization
Dr. Ajetunmobi confirmed that the students were stabilized and are currently receiving proper medical care. She commended the quick response of the emergency teams and the medical staff at both hospitals for their professionalism in handling the situation.
“The affected students are responding well to treatment, and we are closely monitoring their condition to ensure a full recovery,” she said. The Commissioner also urged the management of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, to launch a thorough investigation into the incident to identify those responsible and ensure they face appropriate consequences.
Calls for Investigation and Sensitization
Dr. Ajetunmobi emphasized the need for sensitization programs within the institution to educate students on the dangers of violence and harmful behavior. “This incident highlights the importance of fostering a culture of peace and responsibility among students. We must work together to prevent such occurrences in the future,” she stated.
She reassured the public of the Oyo State Ministry of Health’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of all residents. “Our emergency response teams are always on standby to address health-related emergencies promptly and effectively,” she added.
Institution’s Response and Commitment to Justice
The Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Dr. Taiwo, expressed gratitude to the state government for its swift response to the incident. He assured the public that the institution would conduct a thorough investigation to identify the individuals responsible for releasing the poisonous gas.
“We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident and are committed to ensuring that those involved are identified and punished according to the law. The safety and well-being of our students remain our top priority,” Dr. Taiwo said.
He also pledged to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, including increased security and awareness campaigns on campus.
Eyewitness Accounts and Community Reactions
Eyewitnesses at the scene described the chaos that ensued after the gas was released. “It was a terrifying scene. Students were coughing, collapsing, and struggling to breathe. Everyone was panicking, and it took some time before help arrived,” one student recounted.
The incident has sparked widespread concern among parents, students, and staff of the institution. Many have taken to social media to express their outrage and call for stricter measures to ensure the safety of students on campus.
Broader Implications for Campus Safety
This incident has reignited discussions about safety protocols in Nigerian tertiary institutions. Over the years, there have been several reports of violence, cult-related activities, and other security challenges on campuses. The release of a poisonous gas in a lecture hall underscores the need for improved security measures and conflict resolution mechanisms within educational institutions.
Stakeholders have called for the installation of surveillance cameras, stricter enforcement of rules against harmful substances, and the establishment of counseling units to address student grievances before they escalate into violence.
Government’s Commitment to Public Health
The Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting the health and safety of its residents. Dr. Ajetunmobi emphasized that the Ministry of Health would continue to collaborate with educational institutions and other stakeholders to promote a safe and conducive learning environment.
“We will not relent in our efforts to ensure that Oyo State remains a safe place for all, including students who are the future of our nation,” she said.
Conclusion
The poisonous gas incident at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the safety of students in educational institutions. While the affected students are on the path to recovery, the incident has highlighted the importance of addressing underlying issues such as violence and the misuse of harmful substances.
The Oyo State Government and the management of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, have both pledged to take decisive action to prevent a recurrence. As investigations continue, there is hope that justice will be served, and lessons will be learned to foster a safer and more peaceful environment for students.
