The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC) says volunteers and human rights defenders reported that several people in Okrika died after inhaling fumes from illegally refined gasoline, known locally as “Indrama Fuel” and commonly referred to as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) is working with other security agencies to investigate the reported deaths, which occurred early Thursday morning. Authorities have urged the public and the media to rely on verified information while the investigation continues.
YEAC condemned illegal oil refining, pipeline tapping and the siphoning of petroleum products, warning that these activities threaten human lives, damage the environment and harm Nigeria’s economy.
Environmental activists have repeatedly linked illegal oil operations in the Niger Delta to pollution, habitat destruction and other forms of environmental degradation.
The Nigerian government has intensified efforts to combat crude oil theft and illegal refining across the oil-producing region in recent years.
On Thursday, Naval Intelligence Director Captain Abiodun Folorunsho warned oil thieves that they would have “no place to hide” as the Nigerian Navy increases patrols along the waterways and coastal areas of the Niger Delta.
“Their days are numbered. If we catch you, of course you will face the law,” he said in an interview with Nigerian broadcaster Channels TV.
The Nigerian Navy has expanded maritime security operations, while the military and other security agencies continue to target oil theft networks operating in the region’s dense mangrove forests.
Nigeria is seeking to increase crude oil production after years of disruption caused by oil theft, insecurity and inadequate investment in the petroleum sector.
The country aims to boost oil output to approximately 3 million barrels per day by 2030, with improved security, industry reforms and fresh investment expected to support that target.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk