February 16, 2025

Nigerian Air Force denies involvement in Rivers State oil well explosion

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Explosion-Rocks-Agip-Facility

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has refuted allegations linking its operations to the recent explosion at a Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) wellhead in Buguma, Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.

In a statement issued on Monday, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, described the claims as “false and unfounded.”

He addressed reports suggesting that the explosion, which occurred at an NNPCL-operated wellhead, could have been caused by aging oil infrastructure, illegal oil bunkering, or NAF activities.

The NAF noted that its operations in the region are strictly monitored and adhere to high safety standards. The agency reiterated that the allegations by the Buguma Community spokesperson lacked any basis.

The statement read: “The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has noted with concern a misleading report by certain media outlets suggesting that the NAF may have been responsible for the explosion at the NNPC wellhead in Buguma Community, Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.

“The NAF categorically refutes this false and unfounded claim and urges media outlets to exercise due diligence by verifying facts before publishing, rather than relying on assumptions.

“Contrary to the allegations made by the Buguma Community spokesperson, who speculated that the fire may have been caused by aging oil facilities, illegal oil bunkering, or NAF operations, we wish to clarify the situation. The wellhead had been leaking crude oil due to prolonged illegal activities in the area. Video recordings from previous missions confirm that the wellhead had been leaking for an extended period, resulting in the accumulation of gas and flammable liquids in the surrounding environment.

“High-definition (HD) video recordings from the NAF platform, including footage from December 2024, clearly show the wellhead spilling oil and the barge already burnt before its arrival at the location. The onboard camera system ensures transparency and accountability by capturing and documenting all activities, eliminating any possibility of indiscriminate firing at civilians or destroying assets, as falsely alleged.”

“The safety of innocent civilians and the protection of critical infrastructure remain a top priority for the Service,” the statement said.

 

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