A gas pipeline along the Soku-Abua-Rumuji right-of-way in Rivers State, Nigeria, caught fire overnight on March 22, 2025. This incident marks the third explosion at oil facilities in the state within a week, raising significant concerns about the security of the region’s oil infrastructure.
The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria) reported that its volunteers observed a loud explosion and fireballs emanating from the Soku facility, operated by Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited. However, community leadership, represented by General Secretary Witness Alasia, refuted claims of an explosion at the gas plant, confirming a fire outbreak along the pipeline’s right-of-way instead. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
These incidents coincide with a state of emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025. The emergency measures, which include the suspension of elected officials and the appointment of a retired military officer as sole administrator, aim to address escalating security challenges and protect critical oil infrastructure in the region. The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) is urged to conduct Joint Investigation Visits (JIVs) to assess the situation comprehensively.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are monitoring developments closely to ensure the safety and security of the affected communities and vital energy assets.
