Rivers community in panic as gas seepage triggers fire outbreak

Precious Anga

Lagos — Residents of Bille Kingdom in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State have raised alarm over worsening environmental hazards after a fire outbreak linked to persistent gas seepage and bubbling points in the community.

The incident occurred on Wednesday at Opu Dah Community Square, causing panic as residents battled to contain the flames and prevent further destruction.

Community members said they have observed unusual environmental activity for months, including bubbling rivers, oily substances seeping from the ground and continuous gas emissions across different parts of the kingdom.

According to residents, the situation began around November last year, with repeated appeals made to authorities for intervention, but they claim little action has been taken.

Tension escalated after an abandoned mono pump in Opuda compound reportedly ignited following prolonged gas emissions.

A resident, Timothy Agunbiade, said panic broke out after a loud sound was heard before fire erupted from the site.

He explained that the blaze came from one of several bubbling points that have been active for over six months, adding that the affected mono pump had long been abandoned.

The fire left residents scrambling to control the situation using improvised methods, including soaked blankets and rugs, to prevent the spread of flames.

Agunbiade added that some residents sustained injuries during the firefighting efforts, with two people reportedly receiving serious treatment while others were discharged after minor injuries.

The incident has heightened fears of a larger explosion, with residents warning that the community remains at risk if urgent intervention is not carried out.

Meanwhile, the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has collected samples from the site for laboratory analysis, while residents await the outcome of investigations.

Community members are calling on federal authorities and environmental regulators to urgently identify the source of the gas seepage and take immediate action to prevent further loss of lives and environmental damage.