By Ephraim Emmanuel
Residents and youth leaders of the Aleto community in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State have raised an alarm over an uncontained gas leakage along a major pipeline right-of-way traversing the area.
The suspected Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) leak, which was first noticed on August 19, 2026, reportedly cuts through a densely populated zone featuring both commercial structures and residential homes.
Speaking to journalists, the Youth President of Aleto, Mr. John Nwoke, disclosed that the community promptly notified the heads of relevant security agencies upon discovering the leak. However, more than a week after the initial report, no corrective action has been taken, nor has any operating company claimed ownership of the damaged facility.
Nwoke expressed deep concern over the environmental and health hazards posed by the escaping gas, revealing that several residents are currently unable to cook open meals due to the impending threat of a devastating fire or explosion.
“We reported this matter to security agencies for prompt action, but a week later, nothing has been done and no company is claiming responsibility,” Nwoke stated, while strongly dismissing allegations that the breach was caused by local pipeline vandals.
He appealed to the Rivers State Government, the Eleme Local Government Council, and relevant environmental regulatory agencies to intervene immediately to seal the leak and prevent potential loss of life and property.
Corroborating the concerns, another youth leader in the community, Ngewe Israel, condemned the operating companies’ failure to act, describing the delay as gross negligence and a disregard for human lives and host community safety.
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