by Jeong Hyunjin
Published 24 Apr.2022 07:44(KST)
[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] An explosion occurred at an illegal oil refining factory located on the border of Rivers State and Imo State in southern Nigeria, killing more than 100 people.
According to major foreign media on the 23rd (local time), the explosion reportedly happened the previous night. Goodluck Opia, the director of oil resources in Rivers State, said, "A fire broke out at the illegal oil refining factory, and more than 100 people were burned beyond recognition."
In the Niger Delta oil region of southern Nigeria, illegal refining businesses have become active due to unemployment and poverty. This business involves siphoning crude oil from pipelines owned by major oil companies and refining it in temporary tanks.
Foreign media explained that fatal accidents occur during this process. In October last year, another illegal oil refining facility in Rivers State exploded, killing at least 25 people, including children.
Ledum Mitee, former chairman of the Ogoni Survival Movement (MOSOP), said, "Recently, crackdowns on illegal oil refining facilities have been carried out in Rivers State, and the illegal facilities had to move to state borders or neighboring states. There have been several raids for crackdowns over the past one to two months, often resulting in clashes with facility security personnel."
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