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The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has reported a significant oil spill from Shell’s underwater pipeline in Obololi, Southern Ijaw Local Government area of Bayelsa State. According to Chukwuemeka Woke, Director-General of NOSDRA, “The agency received a report on Monday, February 17, 2025, of a crude oil spill from Shell Petroleum Development Company 16” Nun River-Kolo creek pipeline at Obololi community in Southern Ijaw LGA, Bayelsa State.”

Woke explained that the leak was detected in Shell’s 16-inch Nun River-Kolo Creek pipeline, causing crude oil to spill into the River Nun and affecting communities around Obololi. He noted that a joint investigative visit was initiated immediately to determine the cause of the spill.

However, Woke stated that the exact cause of the leak remains unknown as the pipeline is submerged in water. “The JIV was led by NOSDRA and included stakeholders such as Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria, the Bayelsa Ministry of Environment, and representatives of the affected community to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident,” he said.

Woke added that containment measures were in place, with temporary storage tanks on the way. “SPDC is preparing a coffer dam to enable the team to get access to the spill point. Containment of the spill area has been completed. Temporary storage tanks are in transit to the spill location; and recovery of free-phase oil will commence on Friday, February 21, 2025,” he said.

NOSDRA is actively monitoring the situation to ensure appropriate response actions. “The agency is actively monitoring the ongoing response and continuously evaluating the situation to ensure that appropriate response actions are deployed accordingly. The agency will provide further details as events unfold,” Woke said.

This incident is not isolated, as NOSDRA’s 2024 report revealed that 19,000 barrels of crude oil were spilled last year, approximately three million litres, and 95 oil tanker trucks full. One of the spills was categorized as ‘major’, involving over 250 barrels spilled into inland waters or over 2,500 barrels spilled on land, swamp, shoreline, and the open sea. Locals are demanding a cleanup as well as relief supplies, including water and fish, to help alleviate their suffering.

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