Upstream Regulatory Commission Confirms Sealing of Bayelsa Blowout

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) yesterday confirmed the successful stoppage of the Santa Barbara oil spill in the Nembe Creeks, Bayelsa State.

A statement personally signed by the commission’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, said the NURPC remained proud of the efforts of all stakeholders which ensured that there was no associated fire or fatality during the period of the spill.

“The well operated by Aiteo Eastern Exploration and Production Company (AEEPCO) has been ‘killed ‘ through the professional deployment of appropriate technology and effective collaboration with all stakeholders by the commission,” the organisation added.

Komolafe stated that in line with global best practice, the commission would continue to monitor the containment of the spill at the site while Clean Nigeria Associate (CNA) would remain active to conclude ongoing clean up efforts.

As the upstream regulator, Komolafe stressed that the commission would provide necessary oversight in the response planning by Aiteo and carry out statutory Joint Investigation Visit(JIV) once well kill equipment had been demobilised from site.

“In furtherance of the commission’s incident management plans, Post-Impact Assessment (PIA) studies will commence under the strict supervision of the commission with an approved scope as soon as the clean-up is concluded, to ensure adequate restoration of the impacted environment.

“The commission wishes to appreciate the cooperation and understanding of the affected communities during the period of the spill,” NURPC stated.

The Group Managing Director of the indigenous oil company, Mr. Victor Okoronkwo, had indicated that the impaired facility had been brought under control, the flow stopped and the well secured.

He had explained that the outcome was achieved against the backdrop of very challenging circumstances exacerbated by the weather, the tidal cycle in the creek, and the silted slot of the well resulting in reduced effective working hours.

The company had on Friday, November 5, 2021, reported a hydrocarbon wellhead leak on the facility to the Nigerian authorities.