CNG Vehicle Explosion in Benin Raises Safety Concerns

A tragic incident unfolded on Thursday morning in Benin City, Edo State, when a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle exploded at the NIPCO filling station on Aduwawa, along the Benin-Auchi Expressway. The explosion left three individuals injured, who were quickly transported to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital for treatment.

A viral video from the scene showed the vehicle in pieces, as bystanders fled in panic following the loud explosion. The incident reportedly occurred during a test run of the CNG conversion, which had been performed by a technician alongside the car’s owner.

This explosion has sparked safety concerns about the conversion of petrol-powered vehicles to CNG, a practice promoted by the Federal Government to reduce transportation costs after the removal of fuel subsidies.

In response, the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI) issued a statement via X, confirming the explosion and extending sympathy to those injured. The statement emphasized that the vehicle in question had undergone illegal modifications, specifically noting that the CNG cylinder used had been welded and was not approved for CNG use.

The PCNGI stressed the importance of adhering to safety regulations and warned against the dangers of illegal modifications. The organization is coordinating with the police and regulatory authorities to investigate the incident.

The statement also highlighted upcoming initiatives to improve safety in the sector, including the soon-to-be-launched Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System, which will aim to regulate the CNG ecosystem and prevent similar incidents. The PCNGI urged vehicle owners to only use accredited conversion centers for CNG installations to ensure safety.