Tragedy struck the Aminigboko community in Abua/Odual Local Government Area on Sunday, as three men lost their lives while attempting to upgrade a local well. The community is known for its oil and gas deposits and for being host to the oil company SPDC.
A Facebook user Amb. Elijah Emmanuel in a statement said, eyewitnesses confirmed that the first man descended the well using a locally made ladder and did not resurface.
A second man attempted to rescue him, but he too was overcome and died. A third individual, who was not initially engaged in the rescue, made a desperate attempt to save the first two men but also lost his life despite warnings from bystanders.
He said, Residents reported that the well has an offensive odor, possibly linked to its depth, and authorities now suspect that toxic gases may have contributed to the deaths. The incident has raised concerns about the presence of natural minerals and gases in the community, which hosts numerous oil wells and gas exploration activities.
Community leaders are calling for urgent intervention from oil sector experts to investigate the tragedy and prevent further hazards.
The incident has left the Aminigboko community in mourning, with prayers offered for the souls of the deceased to rest in peace
