Port Harcourt, Rivers State — Two suspects are in custody following a significant explosion at the Trans Niger Pipeline on Monday night, raising concerns over the potential for environmental damage and disruption to Nigeria’s oil supply.
Authorities reported that the explosion occurred near the border of Kpor and Bodo communities in the Gokana Local Government Area. The Trans Niger Pipeline, which transports crude oil from onshore oil fields to the Bonny export terminal, has a capacity of approximately 450,000 barrels per day, making it a crucial component of Nigeria’s oil infrastructure.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that a routine night patrol alerted officers to the fire at the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC)-operated facility. The police noted that two individuals had been taken in for questioning as they investigate potential sabotage related to the incident.
“The Rivers State Police Command has commenced a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. We remain committed to ensuring that perpetrators of criminal activities are identified and brought to justice,” said SP Grace Iringe-Koko, Police Public Relations Officer for the state.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud blast followed by flames and intense heat. Videos circulating on social media showed thick black smoke billowing into the sky from the site of the explosion. According to police, no immediate threats to the local community or the surrounding environment have been reported.
The incident comes amid rising political tensions in Rivers State, where Governor Siminalayi Fubara is facing impeachment threats from the House of Assembly. These political developments have led to increased threats against oil installations in the area, prompting fears of more sabotage.
The pipeline explosion has significant implications for Nigeria’s oil production, which has recently seen output levels fall below 1.5 million barrels per day. The ongoing crisis in the country’s oil-rich Niger Delta region has raised alarms among industry observers, particularly in light of the economic reliance on oil, which constitutes nearly 6% of Nigeria’s GDP and over 90% of its export revenues.
In response to the incident, authorities asserted that immediate safety protocols, including the shutdown of the affected pipeline, were implemented. SP Iringe-Koko urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, reinforcing the police’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the area.
As investigations continue, the situation surrounding the Trans Niger Pipeline remains critical, with implications that could affect not only local communities but also Nigeria’s broader economy.
