The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has confirmed an explosion on a gas pipeline in Aleto community, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, with reports of injuries and damage to homes and businesses.In a statement issued on Friday, the company said the incident occurred on Thursday on a pipeline operated by NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited, a subsidiary of NNPC Limited.
The company’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, said emergency response procedures had been activated and the affected pipeline segment isolated to prevent further impact.NNPC added that it was working with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to coordinate the response and assess the impact on residents, property and the environment.
The company expressed concern over reports of injuries and property damage, saying the safety of affected residents and the prevention of further harm remained its immediate priorities.
It also disclosed that it was engaging community leaders to identify residents’ immediate needs and coordinate appropriate support for those affected.
According to the statement, the cause of the explosion and the full extent of the damage were still being investigated. The company said relevant operational records, including previous reports and actions taken, would be reviewed to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine appropriate corrective measures.
NNPC urged residents and members of the public to stay away from the affected area and comply with safety instructions issued by emergency responders and relevant authorities.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to protecting host communities, safeguarding the environment and ensuring the safe and reliable operation of its facilities, promising to provide further updates as verified information becomes available.
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