By Chuks Nweke
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has attributed the activities of Vandals as responsible for the fire incident at its Buguma Wellhead 008, operated by its subsidiary, NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd (NEOL).
A statement signed by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the NNPCL, Olufemi Soneye in Abuja explains that the activities of pipeline vandals to steal crude oil led to the fire.
It describes the incident as an unfortunate which also resulted in severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve.
The statement says the incident is 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 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 statement reaffirms commitment to supporting communities affected by these activities and promised to continue to provide necessary relief efforts to mitigate the impact on those affected.
