A pipeline manifold in the Omwawriwa axis of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area, Rivers State, has been hit by an explosion on Tuesday, making it the second such incident in the state within hours.
Earlier that day, a similar blast rocked the Trans-Niger Pipeline operated by Shell in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area.
The latest explosion reportedly occurred at a manifold connecting a federal pipeline deep within the forest.
According to reports, this pipeline transports crude oil to Brass in Bayelsa State.
While official confirmation is pending, the explosion is suspected to be linked to the worsening political crisis in the state.
Recall that militants of Ijaw extraction had threatened to target pipelines if any impeachment moves were made against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who is their kinsman.
Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, stated that she would verify the incident but had yet to provide an update at the time of filing this report.
