Police arrest two over Trans-Niger pipeline explosion

The Rivers police command says its officers have arrested two suspects in connection with the explosion that occurred at a section of the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP) in the Bodo community, Gokana LGA, of the state.

The command said its officers are interrogating the two individuals “as part of efforts to uncover any potential act of sabotage” in the area.

On Monday night, fire erupted on a segment of the TNP along the Bodo-Bonny road. In the video of the incident on social media, thick plumes of smoke were seen rising in the sky from the raging inferno.

The TNP, a critical federal oil transport line, feeds crude oil to the Bonny export terminal in Rivers state.

The explosion has raised concerns about potential environmental damage and oil supply disruption in the region.

In a statement, police said a security operative alerted authorities about the incident and “necessary safety protocols, including shutting down the affected pipeline”, were immediately initiated.

Police said the situation has been put under control and that there is “no further threat to residents or the environment”.

“The Command remains committed to ensuring that perpetrators of criminal activities are identified and brought to justice,” the statement reads.

“We urge residents to remain calm and vigilant, assuring them of our unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. The command will not relent in its efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and maintain peace and security for all.”

The explosion comes amid the political tension in Rivers.

On Monday, lawmakers loyal to Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), commenced impeachment proceedings against Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state.

 A Ijaw group had warned that any attempt to impeach Fubara may destabilise the oil-rich Niger Delta region.