Tragedy struck as an oil rig named Majestic, situated near Ovhor, collapsed in Delta State on Tuesday, resulting in the unfortunate death of one person and leaving three individuals missing. Operated by Nigerian oil company Depthwize, the swamp drilling rig suffered the collapse during the early hours of the day.
The rig had been contracted by the Seplat/Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited joint venture and was en route to its designated drilling location in Ovhor, Delta State when the incident occurred.
In response to the incident, Seplat’s CEO, Roger Brown, conveyed the news via an email statement to The PUNCH. Brown confirmed that 92 out of the 96-member crew were safe and accounted for. However, he lamented that one fatality had occurred during the collapse, while three other rig personnel remained unaccounted for.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the crew member who sadly lost his life and the three crew members who are still missing at the time of this report,” expressed Brown in the email.
Seplat immediately activated its emergency and rescue response in collaboration with the rig owner and relevant authorities. The company emphasized that their primary focus would be on the safety and well-being of the affected personnel and their families. As more information becomes available, Seplat pledged to share further details. An in-depth investigation into the cause of the accident is planned.
Notably, records show that a fire incident had previously occurred on the same oil rig back in 2018.
Punch
