Kehinde Fajobi
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has attributed the recent fire incident at its Buguma Wellhead 008 in Degema Local Government Area, Rivers State, to pipeline vandals.
In a statement on Tuesday, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr Olufemi Soneye, revealed that the fire was ignited by criminals attempting to tamper with the Christmas tree at the wellhead to steal crude oil.
“This unfortunate act of sabotage also caused severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve, highlighting a troubling pattern of repeated attacks on wellheads in the area,” Soneye said.
He noted that since March 2023, the asset had been subjected to persistent crude oil theft. Vandals have reportedly resorted to using dynamite to destroy installations and illegally access hydrocarbons.
Soneye described these criminal acts as a significant economic burden, stressing NNPC’s commitment to tackling such incidents.
“The NNPC Ltd. remains committed to combating these fires and mitigating the financial losses associated with these criminal activities, which place a significant burden on the nation’s economy,” he stated.
He added that the company is collaborating with security agencies to address the issue and assured affected communities of continued relief efforts.
“Additionally, NNPC Ltd reaffirms its commitment to supporting communities affected by these destructive activities and will continue to provide necessary relief efforts to mitigate the impact on those affected,” Soneye said.