Residents of Umuololo Community in Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, have appealed for urgent intervention following a pipeline explosion that caused extensive environmental and economic damage in the area.
The explosion, which occurred in the early hours of June 22, reportedly involved a petroleum products pipeline running from the Imo River Flow Station in Owaza to Port Harcourt and Bonny.
Community sources attributed the incident to the deteriorating condition of the pipeline and a possible system failure, resulting in a major oil spill that affected homes, farmlands, crops, and a school within the community.
The disaster has displaced several residents and left many families without their primary means of livelihood.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Chief Anselem Eletuo called on the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) and other relevant authorities to urgently repair the damaged pipeline, contain the spill, and provide relief and compensation for affected residents.
He also appealed to youths in the community to remain peaceful and law-abiding despite the challenges arising from the incident.
Residents are now seeking immediate government and corporate intervention to address the environmental impact, restore damaged infrastructure, and support victims affected by the explosion.
