Suspected oil thieves have vandalized the 24-inch Ogboinbiri/Obiobi (OB-OB) gas pipeline in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The pipeline, previously operated by the Nigerian Agip Oil Company, is now owned by Oando PLC.

The Bayelsa State government has condemned the act, describing it as economic sabotage, and pledged to collaborate with security agencies to arrest the perpetrators. In a statement on Friday, the Commissioner for Information, Orientation, and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, warned that such destructive acts would not be tolerated.

“The government strongly condemns the criminal vandalism of the Ogboinbiri/Obiobi gas pipeline. We are working with security operatives to ensure those responsible are brought to justice and to prevent future attacks,” she said.

Koku-Obiyai emphasized the collective responsibility of protecting national assets, urging citizens to report suspicious activities near public infrastructure. She also highlighted the environmental and health risks posed by gas leaks, including exposure to hazardous chemicals.

“Pipeline vandalism not only causes revenue losses for all tiers of government but also endangers lives and the environment. We call on youths to reject such criminal acts and support efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure,” she added.

The incident follows recent pipeline breaches in the Niger Delta, including a fire on the Trans-Niger Pipeline in Rivers State on March 17 and an explosion at the Soku gas pipeline on March 22.

The state government reiterated its commitment to protecting public assets and fostering development, urging cooperation from residents to ensure security and attract investments.