Illegal oil activities caused Buguma explosion – Air Force

By Tola Gbadamosi
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has firmly refuted allegations linking its operations to the recent explosion at an NNPC wellhead in Buguma, Asari-Toru Local Government Area, Rivers State.
In a statement released on January 20, 2025, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information, described the claims as false and urged media outlets to verify facts before publishing speculative reports.
The controversy arose after statements from a spokesperson for the Buguma community suggested that the fire might have been caused by aging oil infrastructure, illegal oil bunkering, or NAF operations.
However, NAF clarified that the explosion was the result of prolonged illegal activities in the area, which had caused crude oil leaks and an accumulation of flammable substances around the wellhead.
According to Akinboyewa, high-definition video footage from NAF operations, including missions conducted in December 2024, reportedly confirmed that the wellhead had been leaking crude oil before the explosion.
He said the recordings also showed that a barge in the vicinity had already been burnt prior to the arrival of NAF personnel.
The statement emphasized NAF’s commitment to professionalism and transparency, highlighting that onboard camera systems document all operational activities.
Akinboyewa said that only illegal refining sites and equipment are targeted during missions, with strict measures in place to protect civilians and critical infrastructure.
“NAF ensures due diligence before engaging any target. The safety of innocent civilians and the protection of critical infrastructure remain a top priority,” the statement reads.
The NAF reiterated its dedication to combating crude oil theft and safeguarding the nation’s resources while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.