Tragedy struck the Aminigboko community on Tuesday after three men died while attempting to repair a drying well believed to contain hazardous gases.
Residents said the victims had been working to deepen the well to improve access to drinking water when the first man descended using a locally constructed ladder and failed to respond after entering. A second man reportedly entered the well in an attempt to rescue him but also became unresponsive. A third individual, who was not originally part of the work, then attempted a rescue despite warnings from bystanders and similarly lost his life.
Eyewitnesses reported that the well emitted a strong, offensive odour prior to the incident, raising suspicions that toxic or naturally occurring gases may have accumulated inside the shaft. Community members believe the deaths may have been caused by inhalation of such gases, which can quickly displace oxygen in confined spaces.
The area is known for oil and gas activity and hosts operations by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), with locals noting that previous surveys suggested the presence of underground mineral and gas deposits. However, no official link has been established between those resources and the incident.
Community leaders are calling for urgent intervention from environmental and petroleum safety experts to investigate the cause of the deaths and determine whether there is any ongoing risk to residents. They warned that a thorough assessment is necessary to prevent further casualties and to ensure public safety.
Authorities had not released an official statement on the incident as of press time.
