The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) said that the fire at the Buguma Wellhead 008 in the Niger Delta, operated by its subsidiary, NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd (NEOL), was directly caused by the activities of pipeline vandals who were attempting to compromise the Christmas Tree in order to steal crude oil, thereby resulting in severe damage to the well’s back pressure valve. This Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer at NNPC says reflects a disturbing pattern of repeated attacks on wellheads in the zone. Adding that since March 2023, crude oil theft on this asset has been persistent, with criminals now resorting to extreme measures, including the use of dynamite to destroy installations and illegally access hydrocarbons.
He reported NNPCL as saying that it was stepping up efforts to address the situation, and remains committed he says, to combating these fires and mitigating the financial losses associated with these criminal activities, which he also says places a significant burden on the nation’s economy. “The company is working closely with relevant security agencies to put an end to these acts of vandalism,” he said.
Adding he said, “NNPCL reaffirms its commitment to supporting communities affected by these destructive activities and will continue to provide necessary relief efforts to mitigate the impact on those affected.”