At least 43 people are feared dead and several others are missing following an incident linked to illegal oil siphoning in Rivers State.
The victims were reportedly exposed to dangerous substances during the illegal operation.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying efforts were ongoing to determine the exact number of casualties and find those still missing.
Police said an investigation had begun to establish what happened and identify those behind the illegal operation.
Rescue and security teams are also working at the scene to recover possible victims and assess the full extent of the incident.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about the dangers of illegal oil activities in the Niger Delta, where oil siphoning and unauthorised refining continue to threaten lives and the environment.