Oando Plc has attributed the 27 June oil spill from its Azuzuama-1 flowline in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State to suspected third-party sabotage. The company disclosed this in a statement by its General Manager, Corporate Communications, Alero Balogun, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Spill Response and Investigation
According to Balogun, the spill occurred along the company’s four-inch Azuzuama-1 flowline at the Azuzuama community. Oando immediately activated its emergency response team to contain the spill, following established protocols and regulatory requirements. The company collaborated with the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), the Bayelsa State Ministry of Environment, and representatives of the host community to facilitate a statutory Joint Investigation Visit and subsequent containment, repair, and remediation efforts.
Technical Evidence of Sabotage
Balogun stated that an Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement test conducted on the affected section of the flowline during the technical investigation indicated evidence consistent with induced corrosion caused by third-party interference, commonly described as sabotage. She noted that the finding was affirmed by the regulatory authorities that participated in the investigation. Repairs to the damaged section of the flowline were completed on 19 July after stakeholders restored access to the site.
Ongoing Cleanup and Commitment
Environmental cleanup and remediation activities are ongoing in line with applicable environmental standards and regulatory requirements. Balogun reaffirmed Oando’s commitment to safe and responsible operations, environmental protection, and continued collaboration with regulators and host communities. She added that the company would ensure the timely completion of remediation activities while maintaining the integrity of its operations.
