The Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has averted an oil pipeline explosion that would have destroyed lives and properties in the Alimosho area of the state.

This is contained in a statement by the state command’s spokesperson, DSC Oluwaseun Abolurin, on Friday.

Mr Abolurin said the incident, also meant to vandalise the oil pipelines of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in Liberty Estate and its environs, was averted on Thursday.

He said this was in line with the zero tolerance of the commandant general NSCDC, CG Ahmed Audi, to prevent all forms of economic sabotage in Nigeria.

“The residents of the environment alerted the command of leaked petroleum products, which almost caused panic and fear, leading to the closure of some business activities and schools on Thursday.

“The NNPC maintenance team came to the scene later in the afternoon after being duly notified by the command.

“Maintenance operation was carried out on the lines,” the spokesperson said.

Mr Abolurin said the commandant of the Lagos NSCDC, Usman Alfadarai, had ensured adequate security and safety of lives and properties in the area.

“The operatives of the corps had earlier cordoned the affected area to prevent unscrupulous elements from converting the ugly situation into an untoward advantage for themselves.

“Alfadarai, therefore, directed immediate 24/7 vigilance, surveillance, patrol and monitoring of the area to avoid further compromise.

“Alfadarai also warned vandals to desist from the act as the command will not rest on its oars to make sure that saboteurs are brought to book,” he said.

Mr Abolurin said the Lagos State commandant appreciated the community’s inhabitants for offering prompt, credible and actionable intelligence to avoid what would have had a negative impact on the community.

(NAN)