Breaking News: Another Explosion Hits Oil Facility in Rivers State
Just under 24 hours after an explosion rocked the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP) in the Bodo community of Gokana Local Government Area (LGA) in Rivers State, another blast has occurred at an oil facility in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA on Tuesday morning.
The latest explosion took place at a manifold connecting a federal line in the Okwawriwa area of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, sending massive plumes of fire into the sky. Eyewitnesses reported that the affected facility is responsible for transporting petroleum products from companies like Seplat, Agip, and Shell, serving both Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA and parts of Imo State, and extending to Brass in Bayelsa State.
Fortunately, the facility is situated away from residential areas, which helped reduce the risk of casualties.
This explosion follows a similar incident just a day earlier at the Trans-Niger Pipeline, which is operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and transports oil to the Bonny Terminal. The police are already investigating the earlier pipeline explosion that took place in Bodo, Gokana LGA.
The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed that two individuals are currently in custody for questioning in connection with the blast at the Trans-Niger Pipeline.
Although the exact causes of the explosions remain unknown, authorities are actively working to determine the factors behind these incidents. There are rising concerns about the potential implications for the oil and gas sector, as well as the environmental and social impact on surrounding communities.
Calls for swift and decisive action are increasing, with many urging authorities to investigate thoroughly and prevent future explosions. The growing frequency and timing of these incidents have sparked suspicions of sabotage, particularly given the current political climate in the state. Local communities and stakeholders are demanding answers.
