Rivers: Vandals responsible for Buguma wellhead fire – NNPC

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has blamed the fire incident at its Buguma Wellhead 008, operated by its subsidiary, NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd (NEOL), on the activities of pipeline vandals who were attempting to compromise the Christmas Tree and steal crude oil.

The Chief Corporate Communications Officer (CCCO) of the national oil company, Olufemi Soneye, said the attack, which resulted in severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve, reflects a disturbing trend of repeated attacks on wellheads in the zone through the use of dynamite to destroy installations and illegally access hydrocarbons.

While he reiterated the Company’s commitment to supporting communities affected by the destructive activities, the NNPCL spokesman added that the company is working closely with relevant security agencies to put an end to the acts of vandalism.

“The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) reports that the fire incident at its Buguma wellhead 008, operated by its subsidiary, NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd (NEOL), was directly caused by the activities of pipeline vandals attempting to compromise the Christmas tree and steal crude oil.

“This unfortunate act of sabotage, which also resulted in severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve, reflects a disturbing pattern of repeated attacks on wellheads in the zone.

“The company is working closely with relevant security agencies to put an end to these acts of vandalism. Additionally, NNPC Ltd reaffirms its commitment to supporting communities affected by these destructive activities and will continue to provide necessary relief efforts to mitigate the impact on those affected,” Soneye said.

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