Gas Pipeline Vandalism In Bayelsa: Government Condemns Attack, Urges Vigilance

In a concerning development, a critical 24-inch gas pipeline connecting Ogboinbiri to Obiobi has been vandalized in Bayelsa State’s Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. The affected section lies between the Angiama and Angiamagbene communities.

According to LMSINT MEDIA, the incident has been confirmed by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai. She strongly condemned the attack, labeling it as economic sabotage and a criminal act that threatens both national infrastructure and public safety.

A Threat to the Economy and the Environment

Hon. Koku-Obiyai emphasized the broad implications of the vandalism, noting that it not only causes massive revenue losses for the federal, state, and local governments but also presents significant environmental hazards and health risks due to natural gas exposure.

“The public must understand that protecting national assets is a shared responsibility. Everyone must remain alert and report any suspicious activities near these facilities,” she urged.

Call to Action: Youths and Citizens Urged to Safeguard National Assets

The Commissioner appealed especially to the youths of Bayelsa State, urging them to resist destructive tendencies and instead join efforts to protect public infrastructure. She noted that fostering peace and development can attract valuable investment into the state.

“Together, we can drive the prosperity agenda and build the infrastructure that will benefit our communities,” Koku-Obiyai added.

Rising Trend of Pipeline Attacks in Niger Delta

This incident is the latest in a disturbing trend of pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region. Just recently:

On March 17, a fire outbreak occurred along the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, Rivers State.
Merely five days later, an explosion was reported at the Soku gas pipeline situated along the Soku-Elok (Abua)-Rumuji-Bonny export corridor in Rivers State.

These recurring attacks pose a serious threat to national energy infrastructure and economic stability.

Government Collaboration With Security Agencies

To address the issue, the Bayelsa State Government is working closely with security agencies to track and apprehend those responsible for the pipeline damage. Citizens are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious behavior near critical infrastructure.

For more on national asset protection and community engagement, check out our related post:
➡️ How Nigerian Communities Can Protect Public Infrastructure

Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility

As pipeline vandalism rises, government officials are calling for increased community participation in protecting essential infrastructure. Maintaining peace and safeguarding national assets is a shared duty that ensures long-term development and economic prosperity.

Learn more about environmental risks from gas leaks (World Health Organization)