Rivers gas pipeline blast injures 20, destroys 50 houses in Eleme

At least 20 individuals sustained injuries and approximately 50 houses were destroyed after a gas pipeline explosion occurred in the Aleto community of Eleme Local Government Area in Rivers State, Nigeria, on Thursday evening. The accident took place around 5pm along Old Bori Road, following the rupture of a pipeline belonging to the Nigeria Gas Company, which led to an explosion and fire that spread to neighboring properties.

Several victims were transported to hospitals for treatment, while nearby shops, a mechanic workshop, and vehicles were also damaged. A local resident named Stanley informed that the pipeline had been leaking for weeks prior to the explosion, raising concerns about the company's handling of the reported issue. Stanley alleged that community leaders had informed the company about the leak but no adequate measures were taken to address the danger before the incident.

The Leader of the Eleme Legislative Council, Daniel Chuma, visited the scene and confirmed that concerns had been raised with the company and relevant government agencies, including NOSDRA and the Rivers State Ministry of Environment. Community members had also written to these authorities seeking urgent intervention. Chuma expressed his concern that the explosion had occurred despite the earlier complaints and stated that community members had cordoned off the incident area to prevent further injuries.

The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria) confirmed the incident, with its Executive Director, Dr Fyneface Dumnamene, urging the relevant authorities to provide assistance to the affected residents.