LASG Rallies Support Against Pipelines Vandalism In Ikorodu

 

 

In a renewed effort to address the recurring incidents of pipeline vandalism, encroachment, and explosions, the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, convened a crucial stakeholders’ meeting in the Ikorodu area of the State to seek the support and cooperation of members of the community while also enlightening them on the dangers and far-reaching consequences of tampering with oil and gas infrastructure.

The event, held at the Ikorodu Local Government Hall, was themed: “Preventing Recurring Explosions and the Dangers of Encroachment on Petroleum Products Pipelines in Lagos State”.

Addressing stakeholders present at the event, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, emphasised the critical need for the initiative, citing the rising incidents of disasters linked to unauthorised activities around pipeline corridors.

He noted that across different communities in the state, including Ikorodu, petroleum product pipelines have come under increasing threats, leading to avoidable disasters, loss of lives, and destruction of property.

Ogunleye added that the engagement was aimed at sensitizing residents, empowering community leaders, and strengthening surveillance, urging all stakeholders to play an active role in safeguarding these vital national assets.

The Commissioner, who was represented at the event by the Head of the Oil & Gas Department of the Ministry, Engr. Adedayo Adereti, reiterated the administration’s unwavering commitment to a multi-agency, community-driven strategy to protect critical energy infrastructure, particularly in fast-growing areas such as Ikorodu.

Ogunleye urged participants to report suspicious activity, resist illegal construction along pipeline Right of Way (RoW), and educate local residents on the inherent dangers of encroachment.

“If you see something, say something,” he charged the audience. “Vandals and illegal bunkering operators thrive in silence. But when a community is informed, united, and proactive, it becomes impossible for such illegal activities to persist.”

He also outlined key efforts already in progress by the Lagos State Government, including mapping of pipeline routes, collaboration with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and engagement with security agencies and the National Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), formerly known as DPR.

Earlier, the representative of HRM Oba Kabiru Shotobi, Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Chief Olukayode Olomo, stressed the reason why the vandalization of the pipeline should be eradicated.

He advised the authorities in charge of the pipeline to carry the traditional rulers along from the inception of erecting the pipelines.

Speaking on behalf of Falcon Petroleum Ltd, operators of the Falcon pipeline network in Lagos, Engr. Samuel Ugwu shared operational insights and safety protocols and emphasised the importance of public cooperation in monitoring right-of-way activities.

The representative of the company stressed the need to maintain buffer zones and report any suspicious digging or tampering immediately.

Also speaking, a representative of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Engr. Sanuth Ogunlaja highlighted the regulatory frameworks for industrial safety and the introduction of community-based safety monitoring models.

The Commission, through its representative, reiterated that safety is a shared responsibility, emphasising its mandate to enforce compliance and support public education.

A Chief Fire Officer of Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Mr. Olukotun Odunayo demonstrated emergency response strategies for pipeline-related fire incidents and encouraged residents to familiarize themselves with emergency protocols and hotlines.

A Deputy Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Agbetiloye Kolawole delivered a focused security briefing on intelligence gathering, community surveillance, and early warning systems at the event.

He affirmed the commitment of the Corps to working closely with local vigilantes, police, and state authorities to protect pipeline infrastructure.

“Security starts from the community. When you speak up, we can act fast,” said the NSCDC representative. “Pipeline sabotage is economic sabotage and a direct threat to lives and property.”

The stakeholders included traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, local authorities, landlords’ associations, youth groups, market women, religious leaders, transport unions, civil society actors, and members of the Press.