● Tonye Okurumo
At least five people were killed on Saturday following a deadly explosion at a residential building used for the illegal storage of petroleum products in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA) of Rivers State. The tragic incident has once again highlighted the severe risks associated with illegal refining activities.
The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria) confirmed the explosion and subsequent fire at the site, where illegally refined petroleum products, including condensate, were being stored for resale. The blast occurred late in the morning around 11:00 AM, engulfing the building in flames and killing four women and one man, all burnt beyond recognition.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Executive Director of YEAC-Nigeria, Dr. Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface, expressed deep concern over the continued engagement in illegal oil activities despite numerous warnings. “This tragic loss of lives is yet another painful reminder of the deadly consequences of artisanal refining and illegal oil storage,” Dr. Fyneface said.
He further noted that illegal petroleum activities not only pose immediate dangers to human life but also have long-term devastating impacts on the environment. “Beyond the human casualties, incidents like this pollute the land, water, and air, compounding the suffering of local communities,” he stressed.
YEAC-Nigeria called on government authorities to intensify efforts in sensitizing local populations about the dangers of illegal refining and to strengthen enforcement actions. Dr. Fyneface urged, “We appeal to all involved to desist from these perilous practices. Communities must prioritize life and safety over quick economic gains.”
The explosion adds to the growing number of fatal incidents linked to the underground oil economy in Rivers State and the wider Niger Delta. Environmentalists and advocacy groups continue to press for stronger action to provide alternative livelihoods to dissuade residents from participating in such dangerous activities. GMTNewsng
