Oando Shuts Down Bayelsa Pipeline After Triple Sabotage Attack

Oando Plc has shut down a major gas pipeline in Bayelsa State following three separate sabotage attacks that occurred on April 3, significantly affecting Nigeria’s gas exports to the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) terminal in Bonny, Rivers State.

The targeted infrastructure, the Ogboinbiri-Obiobi 24-inch gas pipeline located between Angiama and Angiamagbene in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, was damaged at three different points. The company confirmed on Friday that the line had been taken offline to prevent further environmental pollution and to allow for a proper investigation.

In a statement released by Idongesit Edet, Assistant Manager of Public Relations and Internal Communications at Oando Plc, the company noted that it immediately activated emergency response protocols and deployed leak repair teams to the affected sites. “Oando PLC confirms three separate attacks on its pipelines over the past week. In line with best practices, the company immediately activated its emergency response plans and commenced containment efforts at the affected sites to minimize environmental impact,” Edet said.

The company also announced that it is working closely with relevant authorities to conduct a Joint Investigation Visit (JIV), which is a statutory assessment involving regulators, the pipeline operator, and host communities. The JIV will determine the cause, volume, and extent of the damage caused by the leaks.

Oando stated that full-scale repairs will begin following the investigation, with a focus on restoring operations safely and efficiently. “Following the JIV, Oando will initiate full scale repairs on the affected pipelines towards ensuring operations resume as quickly as possible, whilst prioritising the safety of people, the protection of the environment, and well-being of the communities,” the statement read. The company assured that further updates would be provided as more information becomes available.