Federal Government Investigates Gas Seepage in Bille Community, Urges Calm
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has received detailed briefings on reports of gas seepage observed in the ground and surrounding water bodies in Bille Community, located within the Oil Mining Lease (OML) 18 corridor in Rivers State. In a statement signed by his spokesman, Louis Ibah, the minister reassured the public that the Federal Government has taken prompt and coordinated action to investigate and address the situation comprehensively.
Immediate Response and Joint Investigations
Following reports from residents of Bille and adjoining communities, which indicated unusual bubbling in nearby water bodies, relevant regulatory agencies and operators immediately activated a joint response mechanism. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), in collaboration with operators active in the OML 18 area, have commenced field investigations to determine the source and nature of the occurrence.
As part of the ongoing response, two joint investigation visits have already been conducted at the affected locations. During these inspections, relevant samples were collected and forwarded for laboratory analysis to provide scientific insights into the issue.
Preliminary Findings and Ongoing Monitoring
Preliminary assessments so far have not established any direct link between the bubbling and oil pollution, pipeline leakage, or other operational failures within the oil and gas infrastructure in the area. However, final laboratory results are awaited to provide definitive scientific clarification and guide further actions.
In furtherance of the Federal Government's commitment to transparency and environmental protection, Minister Ekpo has directed the NUPRC to intensify technical investigations, undertake additional site visits, and maintain continuous monitoring of the affected locations. The Commission, working closely with operators in the area, remains fully committed to identifying the exact source of the gas seepage and ensuring that appropriate remedial actions are taken swiftly once investigations are concluded.
Safety and Community Cooperation
Minister Ekpo reiterated that the safety of host communities, the protection of the environment, and the well-being of residents in oil and gas-producing areas remain paramount to the Federal Government. He urged residents of the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate fully with regulatory authorities and technical teams currently conducting field investigations.
The government continues to prioritize safeguarding lives, protecting the environment, and ensuring responsible petroleum operations across all producing regions of the country, with ongoing efforts focused on resolving the Bille community situation effectively.
