At least ten students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, are currently receiving medical treatment at government hospitals after inhaling a toxic substance and collapsing on Tuesday.
The Oyo State Government swiftly responded to the emergency following a distress call from the institution.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, led an immediate intervention, ensuring the affected students were promptly evacuated and transferred to Ring Road State Hospital and the University College Hospital (UCH) for urgent medical attention.
According to eyewitnesses, the students, mainly from the Science Laboratory and Technology Department, were in their lecture hall after completing a course test when the incident occurred.
A fight reportedly broke out between two students, and in the commotion, an unknown choking substance was released into the air, allegedly sprayed by one of the individuals involved.
The gas caused several students to collapse, with some losing consciousness.
Ajetunmobi, who later visited the hospitals, confirmed that all affected students had been stabilised and were receiving proper medical care.
She urged the management of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure those responsible are identified and held accountable.
She also stressed the importance of sensitisation programs to discourage violence and harmful behaviors that could endanger public safety.
Reaffirming the Ministry of Health’s commitment to residents’ well-being, she assured continued swift responses to health-related emergencies.
The Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Taiwo Abideen Lasisi, commended the Oyo State Government for its prompt response and pledged to take decisive action to apprehend those behind the incident.
Ajetunmobi was accompanied by top officials, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Akintunde Ayinde, and other senior health personnel, as well as members of the Rapid Response Team.
