On October 16, 2024, a devastating explosion occurred at a CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) station in the Aduwawa area of Benin City, Edo State, leaving several individuals injured. The explosion happened while a vehicle was being refueled at a NIPCO station. Preliminary investigations revealed that the vehicle involved had been illegally fitted with a substandard gas cylinder. The cylinder, fabricated by an unauthorized local welder, was not designed to withstand the pressure of CNG, which caused it to explode.
The blast resulted in severe injuries to at least three people. One man suffered eye injuries, while a woman sustained critical abdominal injuries. Another individual had their foot amputated due to the force of the explosion. All the victims were rushed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), where they received emergency medical treatment. Authorities stated that one of the victims might require surgery at another hospital to manage their injuries effectively.
Following the incident, the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI) expressed its concern, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety protocols when converting vehicles to run on gas. The initiative condemned the use of unauthorized and unapproved conversion centers, warning that such practices could lead to fatal accidents. The government reiterated the need for vehicle owners to seek services from accredited centers to ensure the safety of CNG installations.
This tragic event has sparked calls for stricter regulations and enforcement of safety standards for gas-powered vehicles in Nigeria. The authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident, and the individual responsible for the faulty cylinder fabrication has turned himself in to the police. In response, the government is preparing to launch a Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System aimed at improving safety and preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future.
