Grace Omachoko
A series of loud explosions rocked the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) gas processing plant in Gbarain, located in the Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State on Tuesday.
Witnesses reported thick smoke billowing into the sky, prompting fears of potential disruptions to gas exports. This plant is crucial as it supplies the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) export terminal on Bonny Island.
The explosions are suspected to have originated from one of the pipelines feeding the gas plant. Preliminary reports suggest that vandalism might be the cause.
In response to the incident, SPDC promptly shut down the affected pipeline to extinguish the fire and secure the facility.
Michael Adande, SPDC’s spokesman, confirmed the explosions near the gas processing plant but stated that the exact cause remains undetermined.
Adande emphasized that SPDC is actively monitoring the situation, particularly the reports of smoke near the central processing facility. The company is also in close communication with regulatory authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure the safety of the surrounding communities.
He said, “We are actively monitoring reports of smoke detected near our Gbaran Central Processing Facility in Bayelsa State.
“While the source appears to be external to our facility, we are in close communication with regulatory authorities to investigate the incident and ensure the safety of the surrounding communities.”