The Abia State Government has demanded the immediate replacement of an aging oil pipeline following an explosion on the OML 11 pipeline at Umuololo Owaza in Ukwa West Local Government Area.
A government delegation led by the Commissioner for Environment, Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, and the Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Prof. Joel Ogbonna, conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the incident, which occurred in the early hours of June 22.
Speaking during the inspection, officials expressed gratitude that no lives were lost despite the significant damage caused to buildings and other properties in the community.
Prof. Joel Ogbonna attributed the explosion to equipment failure, revealing that the affected pipeline, operated by the Nigeria Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), had been in use for over 70 years since its installation in 1958, far exceeding the recommended lifespan for such infrastructure.
The state government called on NPDC to immediately begin remediation of the affected area and replace the obsolete pipeline to prevent future disasters.
Governor Alex Otti’s administration, the commissioners said, remains committed to safeguarding lives, property and the environment while ensuring that responsible organisations adhere to safety and environmental standards.
Affected residents also raised concerns over the condition of the pipeline, alleging inadequate maintenance over the years contributed to the explosion.
Following the assessment, state officials met with NPDC management to discuss immediate and long-term measures aimed at restoring normalcy and preventing a recurrence of the incident.
The Abia State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting host communities and ensuring accountability in the oil and gas sector.
