Vandals responsible for Rivers wellhead fire – NNPCL

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has absolved itself of any blame over the continued spillage of crude oil from its wellhead located in Buguma Community of Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.

It said the incident and the fire outbreak in assets operated by its subsidiary, NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd., were caused by pipeline vandals seeking to steal oil.

A statement signed by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer
NNPC Ltd, Olufemi Soneye, on Monday, said the incident was triggered by an attempt to compromise the Christmas Tree installation and steal crude oil.

The PUNCH reports that there have been complaints by affected residents over the issue, which started in December 2024.

Earlier on Monday, the Nigerian Air Force denied alleged involvement in the explosion, noting that the wellhead had been leaking for an extended period, resulting in the accumulation of gas and flammable liquids in the surrounding environment.

But the national oil firm said the act of sabotage severely damaged the well’s back pressure valve, marking a troubling trend of repeated attacks on wellheads in the area.

The statement read, “The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited reports that the fire incident at its Buguma Wellhead 008, operated by its subsidiary, NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd, 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.”

The company further pledged its commitment to combating these fires and mitigating the financial losses associated with these criminal activities and promised to provide necessary relief efforts to mitigate the impact on those affected.

“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. The company is working closely with relevant security agencies to put an end to these acts of vandalism.

“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,” the statement concluded.