The Federal Government on Tuesday ordered the shutdown of the Santa Barbara oil fields in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State over what it described as an unfortunate oil spillage.
A statement signed by Ministry of Environment Spokesperson, Saghir el Mohammed directed the exploration company to halt operations in the area until proper investigation is carried out and adequate measures put in place to ensure the safety of lives and property in the area.
The statement noted that the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency through the Federal Ministry of Environment will keep the public informed of future developments on the spill incident with an effort to contained further spread and limit the effect on the environment.