…Urges media to verify report

…Says security agencies deny alleged toxic-fume incident

The LightHope Succor Worldwide Initiative has said there is no credible evidence to support reports that 37 persons died after allegedly inhaling toxic fumes at Okari Jetty, Okrika Mainland, Rivers State.

The organisation’s position followed preliminary enquiries into the report, which circulated widely on social media and other platforms on Thursday.

Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Evelyn Williams said LightHope sought direct clarification from senior officials of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Army with responsibility for the area.

Williams said the three security authorities confirmed that no incident involving the reported mass deaths occurred at Okari Jetty on September 3, 2026.

She therefore urged media organisations to exercise caution and observe established editorial verification procedures before publishing or republishing the allegation.

“We have made preliminary enquiries and have been unable to establish any credible evidence that 37 persons died at Okari Jetty as alleged,” Williams said.

She challenged the originators of the report to provide verifiable evidence to support the claim, including credible details concerning the alleged victims and independent confirmation of the circumstances surrounding their reported deaths.

According to her, allegations involving the loss of dozens of human lives should not be allowed to gain wider circulation without confirmation from competent authorities and other credible sources.

The controversy comes against the backdrop of longstanding environmental and security challenges in the Niger Delta, where oil theft, pipeline vandalism, illegal refining and other illicit oil-related activities have continued to expose communities to serious risks.

The region has witnessed several incidents over the years involving oil spills, fires, explosions and other hazards associated with illegal oil activities, making reports of toxic exposure and fatalities particularly sensitive.

Williams, however, stressed that the organisation’s position on the Okrika report should not be misconstrued as a denial of the genuine environmental and security problems confronting communities across the Niger Delta.

“Nothing in our position diminishes the very serious challenges posed by oil theft, pipeline vandalism, illegal refining and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta,” she said.

“What we are advocating is responsible reporting based on facts that can be independently verified, particularly when a report alleges that dozens of people have lost their lives.”

She warned that unverified reports of mass casualties could create unnecessary panic, cause distress to families and communities and potentially undermine legitimate efforts to address the region’s environmental and security challenges.

Williams reaffirmed LightHope Succor Worldwide Initiative’s commitment to community welfare, environmental responsibility, public safety and evidence-based advocacy in the Niger Delta.

She called on journalists and media organisations to independently verify sensitive reports before publication and urged members of the public to exercise restraint in sharing unconfirmed information on social media.