NUPRC Investigates Pipeline Explosion, Fire In Rivers Community

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) yesterday said it has begun investigations into an explosion that led to a major fire incident near a pipeline in Rumuekpe Community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State on Thursday night.

The commission’s chief executive officer, Gbenga Komolafe, in a statement noted that the causality level has not been determined.

Komolafe assured that the NUPRC, in line with its statutory regulatory oversight of Upstream Petroleum operations in the Nigerian oil and gas industry, would leave no stone unturned to unravel the immediate and remote causes of the incident.

He added that investigations into the incident would be in conjunction with relevant stakeholders, just as updates would be provided appropriately.

Komolafe said: “Although there are speculations about the level of casualties, the Commission cannot confirm any until after our investigations.

However, we will take necessary measures to ensure that all safety and environmental measures in line with global best practices to safeguard lives and the environment are put in place”, he stated.