Nigerian oil industry has suffered a major blow following the explosion that rocked a gas pipeline in Obotim, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Efforts to resolve the crisis in the Niger Delta region are yet to yield the expected results, as a gas pipeline in Obotim was allegedly blown up unknown persons.
The explosion is said to have occurred around 11.30pm Sunday night and lit up the sky with brilliant light sending thousands of people running for their lives.
According to residents of the areas, the illuminating light seems as if there was a plane crash, a development that has not been seen in the area before.
It was not immediately known what might have caused the explosion, but residents said they saw electrical cables at the sight of the explosion, adding that ‘’they blew up the pipeline and ran away in their car.’’
“We have not seen many of our children who ran away when the explosion occurred,’’ one resident said.
But speaking in response to the explosion, Cordellia Nwawe, police public relation officer, Akwa Ibom State command, said investigations have commenced but ruled out any sabotage.
It was however gathered that one militant group active in the region had allegedly claimed responsibility.
