Exploded CNG-Powered vehicle in Edo caused by unapproved cylinder – FG

Benin, Edo – Tragedy struck Thursday morning in Benin City, the Edo State Capital following the explosion of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered vehicle at NIPCO filling station located at Aduwawa along the Benin-Auchi Expressway.

In a viral video making round on social media, the vehicle was vividly scattered while people around the vicinity ran for dear lives as the loud sound from the explosion created panic among residents in the vicinity.

Three persons were said to have sustained various degrees of injuries and have been rushed to a private hospital for medical attention.

The explosion is coming on the heels of safety concerns raised about the conversion of petrol-powered vehicles to CNG as advocated for by the Federal Government as a measure to lower the cost of transportation following the removal of fuel subsidy.

Responding, the Presidential CNG Initiative (PNCGI) noted that the unfortunate incident involved an illegally modified vehicle at the CNG Station in the state capital.

The PCNGI, which commiserate with the injured persons stated that it is was already working with the police, and regulatory agencies as well as the management of NIPCO for further investigation of the incident.

"The Presidential CNG Initiative notes the unfortunate incident that involved an illegally modified vehicle at a NIPCO CNG Station at Ikpoba Hill in Benin City on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.

"The PCNGI commiserate with those injured in this avoidable incident, and thankful that no lives were lost. The PCNGI also note that safe handling of all hydrocarbon is critical to their safe use. A close examination of the cylinder in question in Benin City shows it was welded and modified and not an approved for use for CNG. The police, regulatory authorities and management of NIPCO are undertaking a painstaking investigation of the incident and we are coordinating with them.

"This incident reiterates the impetus of the PCNGI and our partners on the soon to be launched Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System at SON, NMDPRA, NADDC and FRSC to tackle any bad actors in the ecosystem that seeks to make this safer, cheaper, cleaner and more reliable source of fueling risky for all.

"We also call on all stakeholders to cooperate with the new system of regulation and ensure full compliance. Only accredited conversion centers must be patronized and safe handling of CNG just like petrol ensures safety of all.", It posted on X