The Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP) in the Bodo community, located in the Gokana local government area of Rivers State, has resumed operations after a fire broke out on Monday night, February 17.
The fire occurred on a segment of the pipeline along the Bodo-Bonny road, with videos circulating on social media showing flames reaching into the sky. The TNP is a vital federal oil transport line that supplies crude oil to the Bonny export terminal in Rivers State.
The explosion led to a temporary shutdown, raising concerns about potential environmental damage and disruptions to the region’s oil supply.
Tony Okonedo, spokesperson for Renaissance Group, confirmed the resumption of operations on Wednesday. “Operations have resumed. We previously suspended operations to address a third-party interference, but we are back on track now,” Okonedo said.
The incident unfolded amid rising political tensions in Rivers State. On Monday, lawmakers supporting Nyesom Wike, the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), initiated impeachment proceedings against Siminalayi Fubara, the state governor.
In response to the political crisis, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers on Tuesday. He also suspended Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the state assembly. Tinubu appointed retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas to oversee the administration of the state.
