Just In: CNG-Converted Vehicle Explodes at NIPCO Station in Benin

A gas-powered vehicle exploded at a NIPCO Ltd. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) station in the Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, on October 16, 2024. The incident occurred during refuelling at the station on Aduwawa, 38 Benin Auchi Road, Benin City. This resulted in injuries and widespread panic, according to eyewitness accounts shared on social media on Thursday.

Videos circulating on social media show bystanders gathering around the wreckage, though full details of the incident are yet to be confirmed. Following the removal of the fuel subsidy in May 2023, petrol has become increasingly unaffordable in Nigeria, leading to the popularity of CNG-powered vehicles. Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki disclosed last year that over 5,600 cars in Benin were already running on CNG, following data obtained from NIPCO Gas, a joint-venture company.

In September 2024, the Federal Government launched CNG conversion centres across Nigeria, including several in Benin. Instead of addressing rising petrol prices, which recently soared to N1,030 per litre, these conversion centres were launched to urge Nigerians to switch to CNG vehicles.

Safety concerns have been raised, however, as CNG-converted vehicles carry a higher risk of explosion, particularly in the event of accidents or cylinder damage. Even with safety systems, accidental gas leaks near ignition sources such as engine sparks or lit cigarettes can lead to disaster.

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