A Germany-based Earth Activist, Prince Tony Azubuike, has called on the oil company responsible for the pipeline that exploded in Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, to immediately commence environmental remediation, and take concrete steps to prevent a recurrence of the incident.
The pipeline explosion, which occurred on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, reportedly caused an oil spill that damaged residential buildings, farmlands, and crops in the affected community.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, Azubuike, an indigene of Umuebulungwu, Ukwa West LGA, expressed concern over reports that the pipeline had been in operation for more than 70 years before it ruptured. According to him, oil companies operating in host communities have a responsibility to regularly inspect, maintain, and replace aging infrastructure to safeguard lives, property, and the environment.
He stressed that operators in the oil and gas sector must demonstrate greater commitment to protecting both the land and the atmosphere by adopting sustainable environmental practices and adhering to global safety standards.
Azubuike also urged other relevant authorities to ensure that the affected oil company undertakes immediate remediation of the impacted areas and fully restores the environment without unnecessary delay.
The activist sympathised with the people of Owaza, especially residents whose homes, farms, and means of livelihood were affected by the pipeline explosion.
