Explosion rocks gas plant operated by Shell in Bayelsa

Explosions rocked a gas processing plant operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) at Gbarain, Yenagoa LGA, Bayelsa state. 

According to NAN, the incident occurred on Tuesday at a gas plant that supplies the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) export terminal in Bonny Island, Rivers state.

A community member said the explosion occurred on a pipeline feeding the gas plant.

Jessie David, a resident in the community, said the blast was traced to a pipeline attacked by suspected vandals, leading to an explosion and release of thick smoke and gaseous emission.

He said the operator of the plant was alerted, and the line was isolated, resulting in reduced pressure.

Confirming the incident, Michael Adande, SPDC spokesperson, said the incident occurred near the facility and the cause was yet to be ascertained.

“We are actively monitoring reports of smoke detected near our Gbarain Central Processing Facility in Bayelsa State,” he said.

“While the source appears to be external to our facility, we are in close communication with regulatory authorities to investigate the incident and ensure the safety of the surrounding communities.”

On May 8, two persons were killed in a gas explosion that occurred in the Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos.