Reports from Rivers State in the oil rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria indicate that a devastating fire incident has ravaged the Buguma Wellhead 008, operated by NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd (NEOL), a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd).
According to a statement issued on Monday evening by the Chief Corporate Communications officer of NNPC Ltd, Femi Soneye, the fire was directly caused by pipeline vandals attempting to steal crude oil by compromising the Christmas Tree.
The Company said the act of sabotage has resulted in severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve and reflects a disturbing pattern of repeated attacks on Wellheads in the region.
Since March 2023, crude oil theft on the asset has been persistent, with criminals resorting to extreme measures, including the use of dynamite to destroy installations and illegally accessing hydrocarbons.
NNPC Ltd reaffirmed its commitment 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 added that it is working closely with relevant security agencies to put an end to these acts of vandalism.
Additionally, NNPC Ltd pledged to support communities affected by the destructive activities and will continue to provide necessary relief efforts to mitigate the impact on those affected.
Editor: Ken Eseni
