In a firm response to the recent attack on a critical gas pipeline in Rivers State, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
The minister made this declaration shortly after reports emerged detailing the latest in a string of acts of pipeline vandalism threatening Nigeria’s energy security and economic stability.
We will fish them out. This act of sabotage is not just an attack on infrastructure; it is an attack on the lifeblood of our economy,” Senator Lokpobiri stated, addressing journalists in Abuja. “We are working with security agencies and communities to ensure that every perpetrator behind this and similar attacks across the country is identified and prosecuted.
The targeted pipeline, a crucial component of Nigeria’s domestic gas distribution network, plays a vital role in powering industries and homes alike. While full details of the incident are still emerging, initial reports suggest the damage has disrupted supply to several parts of the South-South region.
This incident highlights the recurring issue of pipeline vandalism in Nigeria, a menace that has cost the nation billions in lost revenue, crippled power generation efforts, and endangered lives.
Previous efforts to curb the trend, including the deployment of surveillance technology and community engagement programs, have seen mixed results.
Lokpobiri’s statement comes at a critical time, as the Tinubu administration doubles down on its commitment to energy reforms and infrastructure protection. With renewed focus on gas as a transition fuel in Nigeria’s energy mix, safeguarding pipelines has become a national priority.
“Crude theft and pipeline vandalism must end if we are to achieve the goals of our Decade of Gas initiative,” Lokpobiri emphasized. “There will be no sacred cows.”
Observers say the minister’s strong words must now be matched with swift, visible action. Stakeholders, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and local security operatives, are expected to ramp up efforts to deter future attacks and restore public confidence.
As investigations continue, communities in Rivers and beyond await the next move from Abuja hoping that this time, justice won’t just be promised, but delivered.
