By Capital Watch Media
A powerful explosion has rocked a section of the Trans Niger Pipeline, TNP, in Bodo Community, Gokana local government area of Rivers State, triggering panic among residents.
The blast, which occurred late Monday night, sent flames and thick black smoke into the sky, raising concerns about possible environmental and economic consequences.
The fire reportedly spread rapidly through the surrounding mangrove forest.
Eyewitnesses described the explosion as deafening, with one resident, Tamuno Boma, saying, “I heard a loud boom, and within minutes, we saw fire everywhere. People started running for safety.”
The TNP is a critical oil transport infrastructure that conveys crude oil to the Bonny Export Terminal.
Operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company, it has frequently been targeted by vandals and illegal refiners.
A video circulating on social media Tuesday morning showed the fire raging uncontrollably, with locals expressing fear over potential casualties and damage to livelihoods.
Rivers State Police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, stated, “We are aware of the incident and are gathering information. An official statement will be released once investigations are complete.”
As of the time of reporting, emergency response teams were yet to confirm the cause of the explosion.
However, speculation is rife about whether it was due to pipeline vandalism or a technical fault.
A security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “We cannot rule out sabotage at this stage. This area has seen repeated cases of oil theft and illegal refining.”
Environmental activists have voiced concerns over the potential ecological damage.
“This is another disaster for the Niger Delta,” said Nnimmo Bassey, an environmentalist.
“The pollution from such incidents endangers both the land and the people.”
Authorities are expected to provide updates as investigations progress.
Meanwhile, residents have been urged to stay away from the affected area to prevent further casualties.
