Pipeline explosion in Nigeria injures 20 and damages more than 50 buildings

A gas pipeline explosion injured 20 people and damaged more than 50 homes and shops in southern Nigeria.

It happened along Old Bori Road in the Aletu area of the Ilmi community, in Rivers State.

The area is part of the Niger Delta, a major oil and gas-producing region where pipeline safety is a concern.

Witnesses said the pipeline had leaked for about three weeks before the explosion, and a local official said he had contacted the company and petitioned authorities.

Nigerian authorities have opened an investigation into the explosion and how earlier warnings were handled.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company says it has isolated the damaged section and is reviewing relevant operating records.

Affected residents are seeking compensation and accountability, while the company says the causes and full impact are still being assessed and has urged people to stay away from the site.