Operations at the Trans Niger Pipeline have resumed after a fire incident. A spokesperson confirmed that there were no blasts, and tests showed the pipeline’s integrity was intact. The pipeline is crucial for transporting crude oil, and recent events led to a state of emergency in Rivers State. Two individuals were arrested for questioning as investigations continue.
The Trans Niger Pipeline, situated in Bodo Community within the Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State and owned by Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings, has resumed operations following a fire incident that occurred on Monday night. A company spokesperson confirmed that the pipeline successfully passed integrity tests and clarified that there were no blasts or explosions associated with the incident.
The spokesman explained, “The pipeline is back in operation. First of all, we had no blasts or explosions in our facilities… We had an unauthorized entry from the operations.” Following this entry, a team was dispatched to investigate and discovered that attempts at excavation and arson had occurred, although the fire had been extinguished. The integrity test on an adjacent pipeline was executed, and operations resumed through that alternative route.
The Trans Niger Pipeline is essential for transporting 450,000 barrels of crude oil per day to the Bonny Export Terminal through its extensive network. Recently, Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings finalized a significant transaction with Shell, acquiring full equity interests in the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria. Reports of an explosion at the pipeline contributed to President Bola Tinubu declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State.
Grace Iringe-Koko, the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the fire incident, which was identified during a routine security patrol on Monday night. Following the discovery, Renaissance was alerted, leading to the immediate shutdown of the affected pipeline and the implementation of safety protocols. While authorities assured that there was no ongoing threat to local residents or the environment, two individuals have been detained for further questioning as part of the continuous investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire incident.
In conclusion, operations at the Trans Niger Pipeline have been successfully resumed following a brief interruption due to a fire incident. Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings reported a successful integrity assessment with no destructive explosions noted. The incident prompted a quick response from authorities, confirming safety measures were put in place to protect the surrounding community, and an investigation is underway regarding the cause of the unauthorized access to the pipeline.
Original Source: punchng.com
