Abuja, Jan. 21, 2025 (NAN) – The Buguma community in Rivers State is grappling with the fallout of a fire outbreak at the Buguma Wellhead 008, following what the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has described as an act of vandalism.
The wellhead, operated by NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd. (NEOL), is located in Degema Local Government Area and has been the target of repeated attacks by criminals attempting to steal crude oil.
Community Impact and Economic Consequences
Residents of the Buguma community now face the environmental and economic impacts of the incident, with the fire causing significant damage to the well’s infrastructure.
“The destruction of the back pressure valve and other key components of the wellhead underscores the devastating effect of these criminal acts on local communities and their environment,” said an NNPC official.
A Year of Persistent Oil Theft
Since March 2023, Buguma has experienced persistent crude oil theft, with vandals reportedly using dynamite to access hydrocarbons. This has placed the community at the center of a growing crisis affecting Nigeria’s oil-producing regions.
Support for Affected Communities
NNPC Ltd. has pledged to support the Buguma community through relief efforts to address the consequences of the fire and the ongoing criminal activities.
“The well-being of affected communities remains a priority, and we are committed to mitigating the impact of these acts,” an NNPC statement read.
Call for Enhanced Security Measures
Community leaders are calling for heightened security around oil infrastructure in the region, urging NNPC and the government to take decisive action against vandalism.
“We need long-term solutions to protect our resources and ensure the safety of our people,” a community spokesperson stated.
The incident highlights the dual challenges of safeguarding critical infrastructure and addressing the needs of communities caught in the crossfire of oil theft and environmental damage.
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Reporting by Naija247news in Lagos, Nigeria.
