The Rivers State Police Command has arrested two suspects in connection with the explosion at a section of the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area.
The command said the individuals are being interrogated as part of efforts to determine if sabotage played a role in the incident.
The explosion occurred on Monday night along the Bodo-Bonny road, causing a fire that sent thick plumes of smoke into the sky. A video of the inferno circulated on social media, raising concerns about environmental damage and potential disruptions to oil supply.
The TNP is a critical federal oil transport line that channels crude oil to the Bonny export terminal in Rivers State.
According to police, a security operative alerted authorities about the explosion, prompting immediate safety measures, including shutting down the affected pipeline.
“The situation has been brought under control, and there is no further threat to residents or the environment,” the command said in a statement.
“The Command remains committed to ensuring that perpetrators of criminal activities are identified and brought to justice. 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 occurred amid political tension in Rivers State. On Monday, lawmakers aligned with Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
An Ijaw group had earlier warned that any attempt to remove Fubara could destabilise the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
