The Niger Delta Liberation Movement (NDLM) has claimed responsibility for multiple pipeline explosions in Delta State, launching “Operation Chevron Dragnet” in protest against Chevron Nigeria Limited.
The attacks, which occurred at approximately 2:00 am on Friday, November 22, 2024, targeted critical oil infrastructure along the Olero-Dibi-Abiteye fields and flow stations.
In a statement, the group described the incident as the commencement of “Operation Chevron Dragnet,” aimed at disrupting crude oil exploration activities in Warri and its environs until their demands are met.
According to NDLM’s Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Tagbanaraewumi, the targeted pipelines—measuring 6, 8, and 10 inches in diameter—transport petroleum products including crude oil and natural gas.
“These multiple blasts mark the beginning of Operation Chevron Dragnet. This is just the start, as we vow to continue hitting facilities tied to crude oil exploration in Warri and beyond until Chevron complies with our demands,” Mr. Tagbanaraewumi declared in a press release.
He further stated, “We have long called on Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) to honor its host community obligations, particularly regarding employment quotas in their ongoing recruitment drive. Our demands for the unconditional conversion of VTP5/OTP2 and VTP6 programs, among others, have been ignored, leaving us with no choice but to escalate.”
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NDLM has accused Chevron of sidelining host communities, particularly those of Itsekiri origin, in violation of Nigeria’s Local Content Law. The group is demanding immediate action to address employment disparities and the allocation of recruitment quotas to local communities.
“This operation is unavoidable,” Mr. Tagbanaraewumi asserted. “Chevron’s refusal to engage with its host communities and respect local laws has forced us to speak their language through targeted disruptions.”
The group referenced several attacks on oil facilities since July 2023, including the significant June 18, 2024, explosion on the Dibi-to-Olero Gas Line at Junction 19. They promised further actions without providing a specific timeline or ultimatum.
With NDLM threatening continued disruptions, the Federal Government, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), and Chevron may face mounting pressure to address long-standing grievances. These pipeline explosions could significantly impact oil production and the broader economy if left unresolved.
