A wave of explosions at Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) facilities within Oil Mining Lease (OML) 18 has triggered fresh concerns, with Senator Ipalibo Harry-Banigo calling for immediate action to prevent further devastation.
The most recent blast, occurring at Cawthorne Channel in Bonny just two days ago, follows another explosion in Bukuma (Agum), Degema Local Government Area, two weeks earlier.
These repeated incidents have raised alarms over potential safety lapses and environmental hazards.
Senator Harry-Banigo, representing Rivers West Senatorial District, condemned the frequency of these fires and urged a full-scale investigation. “It is unacceptable for these disasters to happen in quick succession. We need answers and accountability,” she stated. “Our people, our environment, and our economy are at risk.”
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As a former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, she emphasized that beyond protecting oil installations, operators must adhere to stringent safety protocols.
She urged NNPCL to swiftly uncover the root causes of the explosions and implement immediate measures to prevent future occurrences.
With growing concerns from host communities, Harry-Banigo stressed that government agencies, oil firms, and local stakeholders must collaborate to enhance safety measures.
She also called for transparency in the findings of the investigation, stating that the well-being of affected communities must remain the top priority.
The repeated incidents have put pressure on NNPCL to reinforce operational security, minimize environmental damage, and reassure residents of their safety as oil production continues in the region.