Kogi: NGC warns against pipeline vandalisation
By James Azania, Lokoja
The Nigerian Gas Company (NGC) has warned communities in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, on the dangers of pipeline vandalism.
The warning was sounded during the sensitisation campaign against gas pipeline encroachment and vandalisation in the Ajaokuta Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Beginning at the palace of the Ohi of Eganyi Kingdom, it was followed by a road show, during which people were sensitised on the dangers inherent in pipeline encroachment or vandalisation.
Representative of the Managing Director of the NGC, Warri, Delta State, Mr. Darlington Samuel (Public Affairs Manager) warned that encroachment on gas pipelines can result in loss of lives and property.
He noted that encroachment on gas pipelines was not only dangerous, but constitutes a crime punishable by law.
He said, “We are here to inform and enlighten the people of Ajaokuta about the dangers involved in encroaching on gas pipelines right of way. We want to ensure that our property and your property are secured. We also want to ensure that your lives are not put in danger.
“We all know that this is a Federal Government project and this is why we have come to tell these communities that little action and inaction can lead to disaster and loss of lives.
“If there is a little gas leak in any of the gas pipelines and we have a little spark of fire around that area, the whole place will be on fire. This is what we are trying to avoid.”
The Ohi of Eganyi and Chairman, Traditional Council of Ajaokuta, Alhaji Musa Idaho Achuja, commended the NGC for the enlightenment campaign, saying that it was a good thing that NGC have taken the pains to come to enlighten the community.