Nigeria's Port Harcourt covered in mystery cloud of soot

The Nigerian city of Port Harcourt used to be known as "The Garden City". However, it has recently been covered in a blanket of black soot, which has prompted the federal government to declare a pollution emergency there.

Port Harcourt is hardly recognisable under the cloud of think could of soot and smog that has covered it since November 2016.

The smog has led the federal government to declare an emergency in Port Harcourt, while some local factories have been closed.

The cause of the smog is not clear but some have blamed illegal oil refineries or the practice of burning tyres.

This is what happens if you wipe your hand on an exposed surface, such as a parked car.

Local residents have mobilised using the hashtag #StopTheSoot.

It has become impossible to keep cars clean.

Local residents are increasingly worried about their health.

However, daily life carries on as much as possible.

People still have to go the market to buy and sell food.

And children still have to go to school...

However bad the smog is.

While street vendors and cobbler still brave the smoke to earn their living.

Photos courtesy of AFP/Getty Images.