An explosion has rocked the Soku oil facility in Rivers State, marking the third such incident in less than a week, with calls for urgent investigation
An explosion has rocked the Soku oil facility located in the Akuku Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.
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While the exact cause of the explosion remains unclear, it follows closely on the heels of two similar incidents in the region, raising concerns about security and the safety of oil infrastructure in Nigeria.
The explosion occurred early on Sunday, with reports from the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria) confirming the event.
YEAC, a grassroots NGO with a strong presence in the Niger Delta, received distressing reports from its youth volunteers detailing the explosion, which was accompanied by fireballs visible in the sky.
The fire is said to still be raging at the time of the report, with the facility itself being difficult to access due to its remote location.
This marks the third explosion at an oil facility in Rivers State within the past week.
Earlier incidents included explosions in Ogoni and Oga/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, both of which have further heightened tensions in the region.
The series of blasts prompted a strong response from President Bola Tinubu, who referenced the attacks in his nationwide address on March 18, 2025.
In his speech, the President declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended the state’s House of Assembly, Deputy Governor, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara due to their failure to protect critical oil infrastructure.
The latest explosion has sparked a renewed call for accountability.
YEAC-Nigeria has called for a thorough investigation into the Soku explosion, urging the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) to carry out a Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) to determine the cause of the blast.
The NGO further emphasised the need for the perpetrators to be held accountable under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021.
The Soku explosion follows a troubling pattern of attacks on oil infrastructure in Rivers State, a region that has long faced challenges related to oil theft, environmental degradation, and conflict.
The recent spate of explosions has added to the sense of urgency in addressing these issues, with many calling for better protection of oil facilities and a more effective response to security threats in the region.
The Nigerian government’s response to these incidents will be closely watched, especially as tensions continue to rise in the Niger Delta.
The ongoing explosions are a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities facing Nigeria’s oil sector, which remains a key pillar of the nation’s economy.
With the situation unfolding, citizens and environmental groups alike are demanding answers and stronger measures to ensure the safety and security of oil facilities in the region.
For further updates on the investigation and response, keep an eye on official statements from the Nigerian government and relevant agencies.
