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By Adewale Sanyaolu
The Federal Government has launched an urgent investigation into reports of gas seepage in Bille Community along the Oil Mining Lease (OML) 18 corridor in Rivers State, following alarming accounts from residents of unusual bubbling in nearby water bodies and surrounding ground areas.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr.Ekperikpe Ekpo, confirmed that the government had been briefed on the development and immediately activated regulatory mechanisms to determine the source and potential implications of the phenomenon.
Residents of Bille and adjoining communities had earlier raised concerns after noticing persistent bubbling in sections of water bodies within the area, prompting fears about possible gas leaks or environmental hazards.
In response, relevant regulatory agencies and operators working within the OML 18 axis swiftly initiated a coordinated investigation to assess the situation.
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, working alongside operators active in the lease area, have since conducted multiple field inspections at the affected locations. During the visits, investigators collected environmental samples which have been forwarded to laboratories for detailed scientific analysis.
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Preliminary findings from the ongoing assessment have so far not established any direct connection between the bubbling and oil pollution, pipeline leaks, or operational failures linked to oil and gas infrastructure within the area.
However, authorities say final laboratory results are still being awaited to provide definitive clarification on the origin of the gas seepage.
Determined to ensure full transparency and protect both the environment and host communities, the Minister has directed the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission to intensify technical investigations, expand monitoring activities, and carry out additional site visits until the source of the bubbling is conclusively identified.
The Commission, in collaboration with operators within the OML 18 corridor, has reiterated its commitment to uncovering the precise cause of the seepage and implementing any necessary remedial measures once investigations are completed.
Ekpo emphasised that the safety of host communities, environmental protection, and the wellbeing of residents in oil-producing areas remain a top priority for the Federal Government.
He urged residents of Bille and neighbouring communities to remain calm and cooperate with technical teams currently conducting field investigations, assuring that authorities will take all necessary steps to safeguard lives, protect the ecosystem, and uphold responsible petroleum operations across the country.
