By Felicia Udeji
Three people are under investigation following a tragic explosion at NIPCO Gas Ltd.’s CNG station in Benin, Edo State, on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. A vehicle with a substandard Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) cylinder exploded at the filling station on Aduwawa, along the Benin-Auchi Expressway, around 5:30 p.m.
Fortunately, there were no fatalities, but three individuals sustained injuries – one with a leg injury and another with an eye injury. All 3 victims are receiving medical attention, with one scheduled for surgery.
According to NIPCO, preliminary findings indicate that the explosion occurred when the vehicle arrived for CNG refueling. The cylinder installed in the vehicle was identified as fake and substandard, not designed for CNG. It exploded after being filled with approximately 4 SCM of gas.
NIPCO emphasized the dangers of unauthorized CNG installations by unqualified technicians using non-compliant cylinders. The company is cooperating with authorities to prevent future occurrences and ensure public safety.
Operations at the affected station have been temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure. NIPCO reassured the public of its commitment to upholding the highest safety standards, prioritizing stakeholders’ safety and well-being.
The incident highlights the importance of proper CNG installations and adherence to safety standards. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to prevent similar incidents in the future.