Forcados crude export line which is operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta state, has been blown up by suspected militants, last week Wednesday.
This incident has led to the spilling of crude oil in the sea and creeks around communities of Ogulagha kingdom, which host the forefront terminal.
Although no group has claimed responsibility for the bombings, it is being alleged that the Niger Delta militants are behind this act as they constantly blow up oil pipelines which has led to reduced export of oil and low income generation for Nigeria.
It was gathered that the military’s trail of the militants who carried out the attack was what led to the raiding of some Gbaramatu communities in Warri South West Local Government Area of the state.
It was also gathered that the breech on the pipeline was not from the militants, but rather a result of a rupture due to the continuous usage of the line. Noting that it was the second section of the reopened line which early this year was attacked by members of the Niger Delta Avengers that was once again destroyed.
Some persons have claimed that the Niger Delta militants cannot be responsible for the attack, one of such said, “It is absurd for anyone to claim that this spill was a product of militants’ attack on the recently reopened line. As we speak, the people of Ogulagha Kingdom are swimming in crude oil. From what we gathered, the export pipeline has not been changed in the last 30 years since they opened it.”
The Chairman of the Ogulagha community, Mr. Solomon Prebor, who confirmed the breach, said it was not yet clear if the spill was as a result of militant attack.
Prebor said it was only through a joint investigation visit that could ascertain the true cause of the spill, which he added had massively affected the various communities situated around the sea bank.
A spokesperson for Shell Petroleum Development Company, Mr. Joseph Obari said, “SPDC is investigating reports of an attack on the Forcados crude export pipeline. We will communicate relevant updates as necessary.”
“We continue to monitor the security situation in our operating areas and are taking all possible steps to ensure the safety of staff and contractors.”
Nigeria has continued to suffer major setbacks in the economy as the low flow of cash which is as a result of the reduced export of oil in the country has greatly affected the finances of the nation.