NNPC Attributes Buguma Wellhead Fire To Vandals’ Activities

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has confirmed that the
fire incident at its Buguma Wellhead 008, operated by its subsidiary, NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd (NEOL), was directly caused by the activities of pipeline vandals.

NNPC Ltd claimed that the vandals were attempting to compromise the Christmas Tree and steal crude oil before the incident.

“This unfortunate act of sabotage, which also resulted in severe damage to the well’s
back pressure valve, reflects a disturbing pattern of repeated attacks on wellheads
in the zone.

“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”, said a statement by the NNPC Ltd Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye.

However, NNPC Ltd reiterated its commitment to combating these fires and mitigating the financial losses associated with these criminal activities, which place a significant burden on the nation’s economy.

The company said that it is working closely with relevant security agencies to put an end to these acts of vandalism.

Additionally, NNPC Ltd reaffirmed its commitment to supporting communities
affected by these destructive activities and would continue to provide necessary relief
efforts to mitigate the impact on those affected.