The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has clarified 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 making attempts to compromise the Christmas Tree and steal crude oil.
The incident described by the Firm’s spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, as an ‘unfortunate act of sabotage’ resulted in severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve, reflecting a disturbing pattern of repeated attacks on wellheads in the zone.
The statement reads, “Since March 2023, crude oil theft on this asset has been persistent, with criminals now resorting to extreme measures, including the use of dynamite to destroy installations and illegally access hydrocarbons.”
However, the firm reaffirms its dedication to combating the fires and mitigating the financial losses associated with the criminal activities.
It also pledged to support communities affected by the destructive activities, adding that it will continue to provide necessary relief efforts to ease the impact on those affected.
Soneye added that the company is working closely with relevant security agencies to put an end to the vandalism acts.
