Explosion rocks critical Trans-Niger pipeline as Rivers crisis deepens

An explosion has rocked the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP), which supplies crude oil to the Bonny Export Terminal in Rivers state.

According to multiple media reports, including Punch and Vanguard, the blast caused a fire in the affected section, though authorities have yet to comment on the incident.

The police could not be immediately reached. The Cable quoted Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, as saying that she would provide an update after making inquiries.

The explosion occurred in Bodo community, Gokana Local Government Area, late Monday night. In a video shared online, thick black smoke and flames were seen spreading into the surrounding mangrove forest. Witnesses reported that the explosion happened near the Bodo-Bonny Road, currently under construction.

The pipeline is a vital oil transport line and plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s oil exports and economy. The explosion raises concerns about disruptions to oil exports a day after Pluboard reported that deepening political crisis in Rivers state could affect Nigeria’s oil production.

Spanning approximately 180 kilometers, the pipeline has a capacity of 450,000 barrels per day (bpd). It is operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

It has been frequently targeted by oil thieves and vandals, leading to shutdowns and crude oil losses. In 2022, Shell declared “force majeure” on Bonny crude exports due to severe damage to the Trans-Niger Pipeline.

This marks the first major pipeline explosion in Nigeria in nearly two years. In the past, such attacks were common in the Niger Delta, often used as a tool to pressure the government for greater control over oil wealth. However, security improvements and government initiatives, such as the Niger Delta Amnesty Programme and the establishment of the Niger Delta Ministry and the NDDC, reduced attacks in recent years.

The explosion comes amid political tensions in Rivers State. On Monday, lawmakers loyal to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Some Ijaw groups warned that removing Fubara could destabilize the oil-rich Niger Delta region.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

UPDATE: The Police in Rivers state released the following statement:

The Rivers State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that a fire incident occurred at the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) operated Trans Niger Delta Pipeline, located at the border of Kpor and Bodo communities.

During a routine night patrol, security operatives observed the incident and promptly alerted SPDC management. The latter initiated necessary safety protocols, including shutting down the affected pipeline. As a result of swift intervention, the situation is now under control, and there is no further threat to residents or the environment.

The Rivers State Police Command has commenced a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire. In connection with this, two individuals have been taken in for questioning as part of efforts to uncover any potential act of sabotage. The Command remains committed to ensuring that perpetrators of criminal activities are identified and brought to justice.

We urge residents to remain calm and vigilant, assuring them of our unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. The Command will not relent in its efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and maintain peace and security for all.

For any useful information regarding this incident or any suspicious activities, members of the public are encouraged to contact the nearest police station, or call these lines.