The Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI) has responded to the recent explosion involving a CNG-powered vehicle at a NIPCO filling station in Aduwawa, Benin City, Edo State.
In a statement issued on Friday, the PCNGI revealed that the vehicle had been illegally modified and was not approved for CNG usage, leading to the incident that left three individuals seriously injured.
The explosion, which occurred on Wednesday, resulted in severe injuries, including a motorist who sustained eye damage.
Two others—a woman whose stomach was torn open and another individual who lost a foot—are currently undergoing treatment at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).
According to initial investigations, the blast was traced to a substandard gas cylinder fabricated by a local welder without the necessary safety approvals. The welder has since turned himself in to the police for further questioning.
The PCNGI expressed its condolences to the victims, stating, “The Presidential CNG Initiative notes the unfortunate incident that involved an illegally modified vehicle at a NIPCO CNG Station in Benin City on October 16, 2024. We commiserate with those injured in this avoidable incident and are thankful no lives were lost. This event underscores the critical importance of adhering to safety protocols when handling hydrocarbons.”
Upon examination of the cylinder involved in the explosion, it was found to be a fabricated and substandard unit that was not designed for CNG use. The PCNGI confirmed that the cylinder exploded after being filled with approximately 4 Standard Cubic Meters (SCM) of gas. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene immediately after the incident.
The initiative also confirmed that regulatory authorities, alongside NIPCO’s management and the police, are conducting a thorough investigation into the matter. “This incident highlights the need for strict compliance with safety standards. The upcoming Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System, to be launched by SON, NMDPRA, NADDC, and FRSC, will help prevent unsafe practices in the CNG sector,” the statement continued.
PCNGI further urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are only converted at accredited centers, stressing that “safe handling of CNG, much like petrol, is essential for the safety of everyone.”
https://x.com/PCNGInitiative/status/1846866726677258459?t=PjdySfllgiqLa0aY3k24zQ&s=19
The Federal Government has also issued a stern warning to vehicle owners, advising against the patronage of unaccredited centers for CNG conversions to avoid similar incidents in the future.
