Two Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) flow stations near the Cawthorne Channel, off the Bonny coast in Rivers State, were engulfed in flames on Wednesday 19th February, following massive explosions.
The blasts, which occurred around 3 PM, sent thick plumes of smoke into the sky, triggering panic in nearby communities. The affected facilities, located 30 nautical miles from Bonny, play a critical role in Nigeria’s oil and gas operations.
Videos circulating online show the raging inferno as locals watched helplessly from speedboats. Witnesses suspect that a welding mishap may have caused the explosion.
NNPC officials have visited the site, but the company has yet to issue an official statement. Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the incident and launched an investigation.
The extent of damage to oil production, potential casualties, and environmental impact remain unclear. However, the explosion has once again raised concerns about safety lapses in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
