Nigeria: Explosion at illegal oil refinery on border of Imo and Rivers states kills dozens overnight April 22-23

Event

An explosion at an illegal oil refinery killed more than 50 people and reportedly wounded many others in Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area, Imo State, overnight April 22-23. The death toll from the blast, which occurred near Imo State's border with Rivers State, may exceed 100. Multiple vehicles were burned in the explosion and the resulting fire reportedly impacted properties in the vicinity. Authorities have launched an investigation to ascertain the cause of the explosion, the number of associated deaths and injuries, and the magnitude of the material damage.

Similar incidents remain possible in the Niger Delta region over the medium term.

Context

While Nigeria is Africa's largest producer of crude oil, a lack of refining facilities coupled with high unemployment and poverty rates in the Niger Delta region have prompted some to engage in illegal refining activities in remote areas. Nigerian authorities estimate that more than 10 percent of the country's oil production is lost to those illegally tapping or otherwise damaging pipelines.

Advice

Avoid the affected area if operating in the Niger Delta region. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.