Nigeria: Panic Ensues as Gas Pipeline Rupture Forces Residents to Flee Rivers Community
By Ahmad Hadizat Omayoza, Mamos Nigeria
Omoku Town Residents Flee Amidst Fear of Pipeline Explosion
Numerous residents of Omoku Town in Rivers State have evacuated their homes due to concerns that a ruptured gas pipeline might ignite. The leakage occurred near Grace Orphanage Home, off Egbada Road, reportedly operated by the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC). The pipeline, installed in the 60s, experienced a rupture attributed to equipment failure.
Pastor Evaristus Nicholas, Leader of Egbema Voice of Freedom, emphasized the need to replace the outdated pipelines promptly, stating that the current rupture remains unaddressed. He noted the potential dangers of gas fumes in the air and urged Oando, which acquired Agip, to consider replacing the obsolete infrastructure.
Chief Bright Abali, a resident and community leader, called on NAOC and Oando to urgently repair the damaged pipeline, expressing concern about the recurrent gas eruptions along Agip pipelines. Abali highlighted the environmental and health impact on the people of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area, urging a halt to unfriendly exploration practices.
