A fire incident earlier feared to be caused by an explosion by Niger Delta militants has been reported at an oilfield operated by Consolidated Oil Company.

At least two oil workers were injured in an early morning fire outbreak at an oil rig operated by the indigenous oil firm at Akassa, Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

Community sources near the oilfield and security sources said the fire was caused by an electrical fault, which caused colossal damage.

“The enormity of the fire hampered initial rescue efforts and it is expected in an oil and gas environment, but the emergency response systems were activated in the facility and the fire was put out.

“However two of the casualties who sustained injuries in the incident were rescued and have been stabilised and getting medical attention.

“The facility has been shut down and the area is calm,” the source said.

Another security source in the area confirmed the fire incident and allayed fears that it was a militant attack.

“The fire incident is an operational mishap and has nothing to do with militants so it is within the operational levels in the company and they are currently assessing the damage done by the fire,” the source said.

Mr Asinim Butswat, Police Spokesman, said the Police was aware of the incident but had sketchy information which was yet to be put together.

Efforts to get a reaction from the oil firm on the volume of production affected by the incident were unsuccessful.

Update news