The Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has clarified that the fire explosion at its Buguma Wellhead was an act of vandalism.
News360 Info reported that the Nigeria Air Force also distanced its operations from the fire incident at Buguma Wellhead in Rivers State.
In a statement late Monday, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, said the fire explosion resulted in severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve.
“The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) reports that the fire incident at its Buguma Wellhead 008, operated by its subsidiary, NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd (NEOL), was directly caused by the activities of pipeline vandals attempting to compromise the Christmas Tree and steal crude oil.
“This unfortunate act of sabotage, which also resulted in severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve, reflects a disturbing pattern of repeated attacks on wellheads in the zone. Since March 2023, crude oil theft on this asset has been persistent, with criminals now resorting to extreme measures, including the use of dynamite to destroy installations and illegally access hydrocarbons,” he said.
He emphasized that NNPC remained committed to combating these fires and mitigating the financial losses associated with these criminal activities.
While stating it had placed a significant burden on the nation’s economy, he said the company was working closely with relevant security agencies to put an end to these acts of vandalism.
Additionally, NNPC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting communities affected by these destructive activities and would continue to provide necessary relief efforts to mitigate the impact on those affected.
