Another explosion has rocked an oil facility in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, making it the second such incident in less than 12 hours.

The blast occurred at a manifold connecting a federal pipeline in the Okwawriwa area of ONELGA on Tuesday morning, sending massive flames into the air.

Eyewitnesses said the explosion took place at a facility that conveys petroleum products from Seplat, Agip, and Shell, serving ONELGA and parts of Imo State, to Brass in Bayelsa State.

Fortunately, the facility is located far from residential areas, minimising the risk of casualties.

The latest explosion follows a similar incident at the Trans-Niger Pipeline, operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), which transports oil to the Bonny Terminal. The earlier pipeline explosion, which occurred in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, has already sparked an investigation by the police.

The Rivers State Police Command confirmed that two people have been taken in for questioning in connection with the Trans-Niger Pipeline explosion.

While the cause of both blasts has yet to be determined, the police are working to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

Meanwhile, as investigations continue, concerns are growing over the potential impact of the explosions on the oil and gas industry, as well as the environment and local communities.

The Rivers State Government and relevant authorities have been urged to take swift action to address the situation and prevent future occurrences. (The Guardian)