January 21, (THEWILL) – The Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited has said 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.
The clarification is coming after the Nigeria Air Force, on Monday distanced itself from the fire incident at Buguma Community in Asari-Toru Local Government Area.
A statement by Olufemi Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the National oil company, said the fire explosion resulted in severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve.
He emphasised that NNPC remained committed to combating these fires and mitigating the financial losses associated with these criminal activities.
He said, “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.”
NNPC however 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”.
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