An explosion has rocked a section of the Trans Niger Pipeline in Bodo Community, Gonna Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The inferno erupted on Monday night near the Bodo-Bonny Road under construction.
Thick black smoke was spotted blowing into atmosphere, with a raging fire spreading fast into the mangrove from a video that emerged on Tuesday morning.
INFORMATION NIGERIA learnt that TNP is a federal transport line that supplies oil to the Bonny Export Terminal in Rivers State.
The unfortunate incident is coming, following a recent threat, made by some unknown militants, planning to attack oil facilities in the state after Speaker Martin Amaewhule-Led administration vowed to impeach Governor Sim Fubara.
READ MORE: Rivers Crisis Deepens As Speaker Amaewhule’s Leadership Locks Assembly Gate, Snubs Meeting With Gov Fubara
Speaking with Channels Television on Tuesday, the Minister of Regional Affairs Abubakar Momoh, noted that the cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.
He said: “Up till this moment, we have not been able to get clear details as to what caused that very explosion but investigations are going on.
“I think in due time, a clear picture of what happened will be known.”
Also confirming the incident in a statement on Tuesday, Spokesperson for Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Iroko said that two persons have been arrested and taken in for questioning as part of efforts to uncover any potential act of sabotage.
The statement partly reads: “During a routine night patrol, security operatives observed the incident and promptly alerted SPDC management.
“The latter initiated necessary safety protocols, including shutting down the affected pipeline.
“As a result of swift intervention, the situation is now under control, and there is no further threat to residents or the environment.
“The Rivers State Police Command has commenced a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
“In connection with this, two individuals have been taken in for questioning as part of efforts to uncover any potential act of sabotage.”
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