Nigeria: Pipeline explosion leaves three dead in Lagos state December 19

Event

A petroleum pipeline exploded in Abule Egbo (Lagos state) in the early morning hours (local time) of Wednesday, December 19, leaving at least three people dead. The ensuing fire reportedly destroyed several houses and vehicles. Officials believe the explosion and fire were caused by fuel thieves; the blaze has been brought under control. Similar incidents are possible in Lagos state over the near term.

Advice

Individuals in Lagos state are advised to report suspicious behavior to the police.

The security environment in Nigeria is complex and is particularly concerning in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Some Western governments consequently advise against travel to certain areas of the northeast (e.g. states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Gombe, Jigawa, and Kano states) and the southern Niger Delta region (e.g. states of Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers). It is also advisable to avoid nonessential travel to Zamfara, Sokoto, Plateau, and Kaduna states. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to these areas.