Dozens die from toxic fumes at Rivers jetty
Three to four dozen people have died after inhaling toxic fumes while loading petroleum products at Okari Jetty in Okrika, Rivers State. The tragedy has left many others missing and sparked calls for urgent action from local leaders and advocacy groups. Fyneface Dumnamene and Blessing Agabe confirmed the incident and highlighted the dangers faced by youths seeking livelihoods in risky oil-related activities. Community leaders are urging authorities to provide safer job opportunities to prevent future tragedies.
What happened
- About 37 people reportedly died after inhaling fumes from a petroleum product at Okari Jetty in Okrika, Rivers State.
- The incident occurred while youths were loading petroleum products from an illegal tapping point, with many collapsing and some bodies found floating in the river.
- Fyneface Dumnamene, Executive Director of YEAC-Nigeria, confirmed the deaths and called for an investigation and better pipeline security.
- Blessing Agabe, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, said the victims were attempting to steal crude oil and that an investigation is ongoing.
- Community leaders, including Igwe Godswill, urged the government to create employment opportunities to discourage risky activities among youths.
