THREE DIE IN RIVERS COMMUNITY WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DESILT ABANDONED WELL

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Rivers State Police Command has launched an investigation into the deaths of three persons, including two brothers, who reportedly died while attempting to desilt an abandoned water well in Aminigboko, Abua/Odual Local Government Area, on Sunday.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident on Monday, stating that investigations were ongoing.

According to eyewitness accounts, the tragedy occurred during a confined-space operation, which typically requires safety measures such as oxygen equipment, proper gas testing, and adequate ventilation.

A resident, Elijah Emmanuel, who shared details on social media, said a man had hired two workers to dig the well. The first worker descended into the well but did not return. When his partner went down to check on him, he also became unresponsive. A third man, attempting to rescue the trapped workers, reportedly lost his life as well.

Emmanuel added that eyewitnesses noted an offensive odour emanating from the well, raising concerns that the deaths may have been caused by toxic gas fumes. He suggested that the community, which hosts natural minerals and gases, might be at risk of similar hazards in the future.

“A well upgrade turned tragic as three able-bodied men died trying to get safe drinking water. Observers believe the presence of natural gas may have been fatal,” Emmanuel wrote.

Aminigboko, an oil- and gas-producing community, is home to a multinational oil company. The incident has caused widespread fear among residents, who are urging authorities to determine the exact cause of the deaths and prevent further hazards.

The Rivers State Police urged residents to allow experts to handle the situation and assured the community of a thorough investigation.