Segun Atanda/
Panic erupted at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, today when several students suddenly collapsed in their lecture hall after reportedly inhaling a mysterious gaseous substance.
The incident, which occurred in the Science Laboratory and Technology Department, left no fewer than ten students severely affected, requiring immediate medical attention.
Eyewitnesses revealed that the chaos started shortly after a scheduled test.
A disagreement between two students allegedly escalated into a physical altercation, during which one of the students reportedly released a choking gas into the air. Within moments, the noxious substance spread, causing multiple students to experience breathing difficulties and collapse.
One eyewitness described the scene as terrifying: “People were shouting and running. Some were trying to help those who fell unconscious, but the gas was too strong.”
The affected students were swiftly rushed to nearby hospitals, including Ring Road State Hospital and the University College Hospital (UCH), where they were treated for exposure to the toxic substance.
Medical personnel confirmed that all affected individuals were stabilised.
While the exact nature of the gas remains unknown, the incident has sparked widespread concerns about safety and discipline within the institution.
The Oyo State government later stepped in, with the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, leading an emergency response team to oversee the situation.
She visited the hospitalised students and assured them of the government’s commitment to their recovery.
Meanwhile, the school authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
The Rector, Dr. Taiwo Lasisi, promised that those responsible for the gas release would face strict disciplinary actions.
He also called for calm among the student body as efforts to unravel the full details of the incident continue.
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