According to Nigerian media channel “Channels TV”, on September 3rd, at least 37 people suspected of illegally stealing oil died from inhaling oil fumes that were believed to be crude oil. Another 6 bodies have yet to be identified.
The accident occurred around 0:00 local time on September 3 at Ocali Pier. According to reports, more than 100 people boarded homemade boats and rushed to the pier, stealing petroleum products from an illegal oil transportation point.
A local source who declined to be named said that during the illegal oil theft operation, a strong smell suddenly spread in the air. Many victims were suffocated by the smoke, and most of the victims were young people.
Nigeria Media "Channels TV"
Many people fell into the river and a portion of those who were lucky enough to escape the scene have developed serious respiratory system illness, and are being treated at the hospital, according to a source.
The source added that as of the time of their report, 37 bodies were identified as locals from Ocreika. The identities of another 6 bodies remain unconfirmed, and many people are still missing.
Dr. Faience Fuse DunaMein, head of the Nigerian Youth and Environment Advocacy Center, explained that the victims connected the pipelines to points where oil pipelines were stolen. This oil pipeline was originally responsible for transporting oil products through refineries to ships that came to load goods every two weeks.
Dunamen added that some floating bodies have been found on the river, but they have not yet been salvaged from the water.
Du Na Meine, on the one hand, condemned such acts of damaging infrastructure and warned young people to stay away from oil and gas facilities to avoid related risks. On the other hand, he also called on the government to provide alternative means of livelihood for the people in the region who have lost their sources of income.
In an interview with media, Igwe Godzwell, commander of the Oklahoman Civil Joint Task Force, said that this tragedy is heartbreaking.
He revealed that approximately 10 bodies were salvaged from the scene, but due to the damage to the bodies, only some could be identified.
He added, “Even though it has been confirmed that some people have lost their lives due to oil theft, there are still people who go to the scene of the incident. Therefore, we call on leaders from all walks of life to consider solutions and find ways to create employment opportunities for young people.”
