The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency NOSDRA has expressed worry over the increase in oil spills in Nigeria in recent times due to third party interference and the resultant damage to the environment and the livelihood of host communities.
The Agency’s Director General, Idris Musa in a press statement made available to newsmen said the destruction of critical national infrastructure in the petroleum industry by those who interfere with them has dire consequences on the national economy, health and general well being of host communities and the environment.
Musa noted that three recent major oil spills which occurred at facilities belonging to Aiteo Eastern exploration and production company, Continental oil and gas company Limited and Eriton Exploration and production company Limited were all caused by third party interference where well head valves were removed.
Similarly, a joint Investigation visit was conducted by a joint investigation team comprising representatives of NOSDRA, Nigerian Agip Oil, Bayelsa state ministry of Environment, Nigerian upstream petroleum regulatory company and the representatives of different communities impacted by the NAOC 24 Ogida/Brass pipeline Nembe oil spill on March 5, 2022 revealed that the spill was caused by third party interference where unknown persons used explosive devices to burst the pipeline.
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An estimated one thousand, two hundred barrels of crude oil were spilled and one thousand, one hundred and eighty barrels were recovered.
Surface water, vegetation, farmlands, fish ponds and fishing nets were impacted in 11 Communities covering an estimated area of 31.5 hectares.
NOSDRA therefore craves the indulgence of the general public to embrace patriotism and have a complete departure from these criminal acts in the national interest.
(Editor :Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
