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

This is contained in a statement signed by the state command’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), DSC Oluwaseun Abolurin, on Friday.

Abolurin said that the incident, also meant to vandalize the oil pipelines of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in Liberty Estate and its environs, Alimosho Local Government Area (LGA), was averted on Thursday.

He said that this was in line with the zero tolerance of the Commandant General (CG) 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 close 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.

Abolurin said that the Commandant, NSCDC, Lagos State Command, Commandant of Corps, Mr 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 making sure that saboteurs are brought to book,” he said.

Abolurin said that the Lagos State Commandant appreciated the inhabitants of the community for offering prompt, credible and actionable intelligence to avoid what would have had a negative impact on the community.