PIPELINE FIRE EXPLOSION TAKES OVER NPDC FACILITY IN OTU-JEREMI, DELTA
OGHENETEJIRI NYERHOVWO
Abura Crude Trunk line, operated by Nigerian Petroleum Development Company/Niger Delta Western (NPDC/NDW)Joint venture, operators of OML 34 in Otu-jeremi community in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State has exploded.
Sources said that the explosion which was followed by a large balls of pipeline fire outbreak occurred around 1.30pm today, Friday, August 30, 2019.
Residents of the area said they heard a loud blast which shook houses in the community followed by serious fire outbreak.
It was not clear what led to the explosion as residents said they only want to save their head first after the blast.
It was gathered that soldiers have since cordoned off the area while fire fighters have been deployed to put off the fire to ensure it doesn’t escalate.
According to a resident who simply identified himself as Friday, “the explosion have thrown the community into tension as people whose houses are near the pipeline are running for cover, looking for safe areas as a result of crude oil gushing out of the pipeline line.”
A military personnel from Nigerian Army sector one in Warri confirmed the report, but said the cause is unknown.
Efforts by Reformer Online to get clarification from NPDC/NDW Asset Management Team proved abortive as Olorogun Christopher Otobrise, Community Interface Coordinator NPDC/NDW and Lt. Col. Oyeka (rtd) Head, Security did not take or return calls when contacted as at the time of going to press.
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