Another Gas Pipeline goes up in flames in Bayelsa creek

A major gas pipeline has been vandalized in the Southern Ijaw area of Bayelsa State, following a series of similar incidents targeting oil and gas infrastructure across the Niger Delta.

These attacks have occurred in the wake of political unrest in the neighboring Rivers State.

The pipeline, a 24-inch Ogboinbiri/OB-OB gas line operated by Oando Energy Plc, was breached in a remote, swampy area between the communities of Angiama and Angiamagbene.

While the exact date of the sabotage remains unclear, the Bayelsa State Government issued a strongly worded statement on Friday condemning the attack as a criminal act that threatens public safety and economic stability.

The statement, titled “Bayelsa Govt Condemns Criminal Damage of Gas Pipeline,” was signed by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation, and Strategy, Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai.

It read: “This act of economic sabotage will not be tolerated. Government is working closely with security agencies to apprehend those responsible and prevent future occurrences.”

Koku-Obiyai further urged citizens to be vigilant, emphasizing that the protection of national assets is a collective responsibility.

“The public should note that the protection of national assets is a collective responsibility, and we urge all citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities around public assets to the law enforcement agencies.”

He also highlighted the significant dangers posed by the damage, warning that such attacks lead to revenue loss for federal, state, and local governments while also presenting grave environmental and health risks due to exposure to natural gas and petrochemicals.

The statement concluded with a call to the youth of the state, urging them to resist destructive activities and work with the administration to ensure peace and protect public infrastructure.

“Together, we can achieve the prosperity agenda of the government and develop infrastructure to attract investment.”

The Bayelsa State Government has vowed to take all necessary steps to prevent further attacks and protect public assets.