FG Investigates Gas Leak Reports in Rivers State

The Federal Government of Nigeria is currently probing reports of gas leaks in Rivers State, specifically in the OML 18 corridor. Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Ga Ekperikp Ekpo, received a briefing regarding concerns about gas seepage observed in water bodies near oil mining leases.

A statement from spokesman Louis Ibah reassured the public that the government is taking prompt action to investigate the situation. Regulatory agencies, including the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), have commenced field investigations to determine the source and nature of the bubbling observed in the water bodies.

Preliminary assessments have not established a direct link to oil pipeline leakage; however, the Minister emphasized the government's commitment to environmental protection and public safety. Residents are urged to remain calm and cooperate with the technical teams conducting investigations, as the government aims to safeguard lives and the environment.