NNPC Debunks Explosion Rumors at Port Harcourt Refinery, Calls It a Flare Incident
NNPC Debunks Explosion Rumors at Port Harcourt Refinery, Calls It a Flare Incident
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has dismissed reports of an explosion at its Port Harcourt Refinery, clarifying that the mid-morning incident on Wednesday, March 19, was merely a flare and not an explosion.
A viral video showing flames at a section of the refinery sparked speculation online, with a caption suggesting that an explosion had almost occurred during a system shutdown. The video fueled concerns, especially given recent pipeline explosions in Rivers State.
However, in a statement, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communication Officer, Olufemi O. Soneye, refuted these claims, assuring the public that the incident was a controlled flare that had been successfully contained.
According to Soneye:
“The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has refuted reports of an explosion at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) in Rivers State.
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“The company clarified that what occurred was a flare incident, which has since been fully contained.
“There is no danger or health hazard to staff, the surrounding communities, or the environment.
“NNPC Ltd. urges the media and the public to disregard any reports suggesting an explosion at the refinery, as they are entirely false.”
The NNPC reassured residents and stakeholders that operations at the newly refurbished refinery remain safe and unaffected.
