Why CNG Powered Vehicle Exploded In Edo – Presidential CNG Initiative

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative has addressed the recent vehicle explosion that occurred at a NIPCO CNG Station in Aduwawa, Benin City, on Wednesday.

In a statement released on Friday, the Initiative confirmed that the vehicle involved had undergone illegal and unauthorized modifications, making it unfit for CNG use.

Upon inspection, authorities discovered that the vehicle’s gas cylinder had been welded and altered inappropriately, disqualifying it from safe CNG use.

The police, regulatory bodies, and NIPCO management are conducting a thorough investigation into the explosion, with the Presidential CNG Initiative coordinating efforts.

The Initiative expressed its condolences to those injured, emphasizing the importance of safety in handling hydrocarbons.

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

“The PCNGI commiserates with those injured in this avoidable incident and is thankful that no lives were lost. The PCNGI also note that the safe handling of all hydrocarbons 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 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 centres must be patronized and safe handling of CNG just like petrol ensures the safety of all.

“Unfortunately, the cylinder installed in the vehicle — later identified as a fake and fabricated, substandard unit not designed for CNG — exploded after filling with just around 4 SCM of gas.

“The driver fled the scene immediately after the incident.

“While no fatalities were recorded, two individuals sustained injuries. One person suffered a leg injury, and another sustained an eye injury. Both victims were promptly rushed to the hospital for medical attention.”

The Federal Government has since warned motorists against using unaccredited centres for converting their vehicles from fuel to gas, stressing the importance of adhering to safety standards.