On Friday, a pipeline belonging to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation leaked, causing panic in the Ikotun neighborhood of Lagos State.
The leak was discovered around 6 a.m. on Friday, according to residents.
They claim that the situation created confusion and fear in the area.
Residents of nearby buildings were said to have rushed out of their homes, with some unloading their belongings right away.
“As soon as the situation arose, we dialed Lagos State’s emergency number. We were terrified, and we sincerely hope that there will be no fire as a result of this.
“Some people have already parked their belongings,” one of the residents told our correspondent over the phone. “Vehicles have been moved away from the area.”
According to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, pipeline vandalism caused the leak.
The incident was confirmed by Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, Director-General of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA).
“A large volume of PMS was gushing out of the NNPC pipeline when we arrived at the incident scene, Omoboriowo Street, Pipeline Bus Stop Igando-Ikotun Road, Igando,” he said.
“Further investigation revealed that the heavy flow of PMS in the early hours of August 27 was caused by suspected pipeline vandalism and bunkering,” according to the statement.
“At this time, no one has died or been injured; however, community sensitization, public education, and awareness are ongoing.
“This is to prevent an explosion or other secondary incident from being caused by any type of open flame or burning.
The first responders on the scene include LASEMA, LRU Fire, Lagos State Fire Service, NSCDC, NNPC, LASTMA, and LNSC.
“Three fire trucks have arrived, and the NNPC maintenance team is working to stop the flow so that repairs can begin. “The operation is still going on.”
