A yet-to-be-identified man has reportedly driven his vehicle into the Ikpoba Hill River in Edo State, refusing repeated rescue attempts by bystanders who rushed to save him.

According to an amateur video seen by 9News Nigeria and currently circulating on social media, the incident triggered panic in the area as passersby quickly mobilised and entered the river in an effort to rescue the driver, initially believed to have been involved in an accident.

Eyewitnesses said the vehicle veered off the road along the Ikpoba Hill axis before plunging into the river on Tuesday. However, in a surprising turn, the driver allegedly resisted all attempts to pull him out of the submerged vehicle.

9News Nigeria reports that despite persistent efforts by residents at the scene, the man refused to cooperate with rescuers, complicating attempts to bring him to safety.

As of the time of filing this report, the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, with no confirmation on whether the act was accidental or deliberate.

Authorities in Edo State are yet to issue an official statement regarding the development.