The Orashi National Congress, ONC, has condemned the reported attack on the Trans-Niger Pipeline, TNP, in the Odau area of Abua/Odual Local Government Area, Rivers State.
According to ONC, the attack allegedly caused a gas leak and forced residents of Odau and nearby communities to flee their homes over fears of explosion and environmental damage.“The attack, which reportedly caused a gas leak and forced residents to flee over fears of an explosion and environmental damage is worrisome,” said Ambassador Emeni Ibe, President General of ONC.
Critical National Asset Under Threat
ONC said it joins Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, PINL, and other stakeholders in condemning the act. PINL is the Federal Government-contracted firm responsible for TNP surveillance. The Congress described the incident as “unfortunate,” stressing that the TNP is a critical national asset that transports crude oil from the Niger Delta to the Bonny Export Terminal. “Disruptions to the pipeline have historically impacted national oil production, government revenue, and local economies,” the statement noted.
Call for Public Enlightenment & Vigilance
Ambassador Ibe said the attack underscores the urgent need for sustained public awareness campaigns against illegal oil bunkering in riverine communities.
“The need for a public enlightenment campaign against illegal oil bunkering activities in the area to be carried out now is very much necessary,” he said.
He urged traditional rulers, youth leaders, and stakeholders in Abua/Odual to mobilize residents to resist pipeline vandalism and illegal refining, which he said endanger lives, destroy farmland and waterways, and deprive communities of development.
ONC also called on residents of Odau and the wider Orashi region to provide timely information to PINL, security agencies, and community leaders on suspicious activities around pipeline right-of-ways.“We must protect what belongs to all of us. Vigilance today will save lives and livelihoods tomorrow,” the ONC PG said.
Background
The TNP is one of Nigeria’s major crude oil lines. Security agencies and NNPCL have linked attacks on Niger Delta oil infrastructure to oil theft, illegal refining, and communal disputes. As at press time, official confirmation of the cause and extent of damage from NNPCL, NUPRC, or security agencies had not been released.
