Oil pipeline explosion: Niger Delta Group attribute NNPCL pipeline explosion to alleged sabotage

A group identified as the Niger Delta Monitoring Group (NDMG) has alleged that the recent explosion occurred near the Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpopo communities in the Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State is due to the indecision by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) on the issue of surveillance contracts.

According to the group, based in Warri,Delta State, claimed that the explosion may be due to the existing tension among Oil Pipeline Surveillance contractors in the Niger Delta region.

The Niger Delta Monitoring Group, in a statement issued on Friday and made available to newsmen via electronic mail by its spokesperson, Commander Oritse Tuoyo,said the explosion incident has sparked widespread concern and raised questions about the motives behind such destructive actions.

According to the statement, ” “Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosion may be linked to pipe surveillance contractors seeking to pressure the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) into review and renew their contracts.”

According to the group, they alleged that reports available to them indicate that some high-profile security personnel within the NNPCL are aware of the circumstances surrounding the explosion, raising alarming questions about potential collusion.

“If those benefiting enormously from pipelibe surveillance contracts are alleged to have sabotage the oil pipelines to attract government attention for a review or renewal, what message does this send to those in communities with oil facilities that gain nothing from such arrangements? the group queried.

The Niger Delta Monitoring Group however called on the Federal Government to intervene, emphasizing that a specific sector within the government appears to be collaborating with these contractors, resulting in significant damage to the nation’s economy.

The group asserts that this pattern of sabotage may continue unless all parties, including those not currently benefiting from surveillance contracts, are involved in future negotiations.

In light of these events, the Niger Delta Monitoring Group urges the government to act swiftly to review or renew contracts while ensuring inclusivity for all stakeholders in the region.

,”Failure to address these grievances could lead to further disruptions and explosions, posing an ongoing threat to both the environment and the stability of the region.”

“Government knows what to do,” Commander Tuoyo stated, expressing hope for a resolution that considers the needs of all affected communities.

Recall that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited on wednesday confirmed that an explosion occurred in its oil pipeline near the Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpoро communities in the Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State.

The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd., Andy Odeh,in a statement said initial observations indicated a pressure drop consistent with a loss of containment on an NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC) pipeline.

He said, “Our priority at this time is the safety of nearby communities and the protection of the environment. Emergency response procedures have been activated, and we are working closely with relevant authorities and community leaders to ensure a coordinated approach to mitigate impact.”

He added that the NNPC Limited remains committed to the highest safety and environmental standards.

“Further updates will be provided as more confirmed information becomes available,” it read.