Local sources confirmed the incident, though there have been conflicting reports about the cause of the explosion.
An explosion rocked the Abura oil pipeline operated by the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) in Ughelli, Delta State on Sunday.
Local sources confirmed the incident, though there have been conflicting reports about the cause of the explosion.
According to a report by ThisDay, security officers told reporters that the explosion was caused by a malfunction. But many local residents alleged that militants blew up the pipeline.
“Yes, there was a huge explosion on a pipeline known as Abura line at about 7.45 p.m operated by NPDC but we are not sure whether it was bombed or a fault,” a local told ThisDay. The publication further reported that the military is investigating the matter.
The explosion was also confirmed by Ughelli South Local Government Chairman Paul Etaga, who visited the site of the incident. He was joined by Lieutenant-Colonel U.S. Abdulsalam and Ughelli South police officer Oghenedoro Samuel.
No persons were injured or killed in the explosion. The fire resulting from the explosion was swiftly extinguished by firefighters from the nearby Otorogu Gas Plant, Punch Newspaper reported.
At the time of publication, no militant group has claimed responsibility for the explosion.
