A vehicle fueled by compressed natural gas (CNG) exploded at the NIPCO service station in Aduwawa, Benin, Edo State, on Wednesday, injuring three individuals seriously, including a driver who lost sight in one eye.
A service station worker, who wished to remain unidentified, informed The PUNCH on Thursday that two more victims were being treated at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Ugbowo, following the incident.
The worker explained that the explosion was caused by a cylinder that was made by a welder who did not have the necessary authorization. It is believed that the welder has surrendered to the authorities.
He said: “The explosion occurred while vehicles were queuing to refill their cylinders at the station. The vehicle being attended to suddenly exploded.
“One motorist suffered an eye injury, a woman’s stomach was torn open, and another person’s foot was amputated from the impact. They are all at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital receiving treatment, and we hope none of them will lose their lives.”
Journalists who visited the scene of the incident observed a technician who examining the cylinders before the authorization of vehicles for refuelling.
Efforts to converse with the station manager failed, as he refused to provide any information, citing that he is not authorized to discuss the matter.
Nonetheless, Joshua Uwaila, the Public Relations Officer at UBTH, mentioned that he had a conversation with the individual who sustained an eye injury and was said to be stable.
On Twitter, the Presidential CNG Initiative acknowledged the occurrence and conveyed their condolences to the victims.
The statement read: “The Presidential CNG Initiative notes the unfortunate incident involving an illegally modified vehicle at a NIPCO CNG station in Aduwawa, Benin City, on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. We commiserate with those injured and are thankful that no lives were lost. Safe handling of hydrocarbons is critical to their safe use.”
The PCNGI further explained that an investigation revealed the cylinder involved had been welded and modified, contrary to approved safety standards for CNG.
“The police, regulatory authorities, and NIPCO management are investigating the incident, and we are coordinating with them,” the statement added.
The Initiative also reiterated the importance of strict compliance with safety regulations.
It added, “This incident underscores the need for the soon-to-be-launched Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), NMDPRA, NADDC, and FRSC to tackle any bad actors jeopardizing the safety of CNG usage. We call on stakeholders to adhere to these regulations and ensure that only accredited conversion centres are patronised to guarantee safe handling of CNG.”
