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Gas explosion causes panic in Bayelsa, Residents missing

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Abiodun OBA

Gas explosion at the Creek Trunk Line, operated by the Aiteo Eastern Exploration and Production Company, caused palpable tension among indigenes of seven communities in the Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The communities include Nembe creek one, two and three, Fatuo and Kalablomi on Friday in Bayelsa.

The explosion, which occurred around 4am near Oil Well 7 on Friday, made indigenes of the affected communities to flee and many were later reported missing, including women and children.

A source on Friday said that the company had shut down the Nembe Creek Trunk Line, NCTL, for emergency repairs following the detection of oil leakage.

A native of one of the communities, who identified himself simply as Patrick, said the gas explosion had polluted the air and water in the area, affecting fishing, which is the livelihood of the communities.

The spokesman for the Nembe Chiefs Council, Chief Nengi James-Eriworio, confirmed the development, describing the incident as “a massive destruction of the area with air and water heavily polluted”.

He said, “People have deserted the areas and the company has refused to respond despite series of emergency calls. The fire was raging. The incident is uncalled for and questionable. The people are afraid. Women and children are missing.”

He called on the oil exploration company to be mindful of the welfare of indigenes.

“This is a large-scale explosion. We are calling on Federal Government agencies to investigate and respond to save the people,” he added.

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