In the early hours of March 23, 2025, a significant explosion occurred at the Soku oil facility in Akuku Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. This incident marks the third explosion at oil facilities in the state within a week, following recent blasts in Ogoni and Ogbema/Ndoni areas.
The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria), a grassroots non-governmental organization active in the Niger Delta region, reported the explosion. According to YEAC’s Executive Director, Dr. Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface, their youth volunteers observed a massive fireball and explosion emanating from the facility, which is operated by Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited. As of the time of reporting, the fire was still burning, though the exact cause remains unclear. Possible explanations include equipment failure, sabotage, or a deliberate attack.
This series of explosions has heightened concerns about the security of oil infrastructure in Rivers State. The recent incidents have occurred amid a state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025, in response to escalating pipeline vandalism and political unrest in the region. The emergency measures included the suspension of the state governor, deputy governor, and all lawmakers, aiming to stabilize the situation and protect critical oil assets.
In light of the latest explosion, YEAC-Nigeria has called for a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the incident. They have urged the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) to conduct a joint investigation visit to the area to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the explosion. The organization emphasized the need for accountability, in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021.
The recurrence of such incidents underscores the pressing need for enhanced security measures and infrastructure maintenance in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions. Ensuring the safety and reliability of these facilities is crucial for the nation’s economy and the well-being of communities in the Niger Delta.
