Three men perished after inhaling a mysterious gas while digging a well in Aminigboko Community, Abua/Odual LGA, Rivers State. The incident occurred during a routine water well project for a local family.
Eyewitnesses reported the workers collapsing at around 20 feet deep, complaining of dizziness. Rescue attempts failed, and the men were pronounced dead on arrival of emergency services. Authorities suspect methane or hydrocarbon gas from nearby oil deposits.
Rivers State Police spokesperson DSP Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the deaths, stating autopsies are underway and urging safety precautions in such areas.
Community leaders demand government and oil company intervention, citing environmental risks in the Niger Delta. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission will conduct soil tests.
Families are grieving, with the community providing support. ReportNaija will update as details emerge.