Residents of Ikot Ukpong, an oil and gas community in Ukanafun Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, have raised concerns over an impending humanitarian and environmental catastrophe due to an uncontrolled gas leak from a ruptured pipeline.
Reports indicate that the pipeline damage is linked to the oil exploration and exploitation activities carried out by Savana Energy Ltd, an International Oil Company (IOC) operating in the area.
The gas leakage occurring on the Right of Way (RoW) in our community poses a significant threat to the lives, properties, and agricultural activities of the people, which is their primary source of livelihood. We are urging all levels of government, the company, and other relevant authorities to take immediate action to prevent this situation from escalating into a major humanitarian crisis,” said Comrade Ndarake Akpan, a youth leader.
Nsikak Ekanem, a journalist, confirmed that the company is currently working to resolve the issue before it worsens.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, has advised residents of the affected area to exercise extreme caution to ensure their safety following the reported gas leak along the Right of Way (RoW) at Ikot Ukpong, from a pipeline operated by Savana Energy Ltd.
In a statement released by the minister’s spokesperson, Louis Ibah, the affected residents were urged to remain vigilant in light of the ongoing situation. The minister also assured that efforts are being made in collaboration with relevant regulatory agencies and stakeholders at both the federal and state levels to determine the cause of the leak and restore normalcy to the area as soon as possible.
Residents living near gas pipelines were advised not to tamper with critical infrastructure and to report any suspected leaks to the appropriate authorities immediately. The minister warned against attempting to exploit the situation for personal gain, as this could result in serious injury or even death.
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