CNG explosion: Presidential panel urges motorists to use only accredited conversion centres

The presidential compressed natural gas initiative (Pi-CNG) has advised Nigerians to exercise caution when using CNG and ensure they visit only accredited conversion centres.

Michael Oluwagbemi, the programme director and chief executive officer (CEO) of Pi-CNG, spoke on Friday at the site of the NIPCO filling station explosion in Benin.

On Thursday, a car powered by CNG exploded at a NIPCO filling station on Benin-Auchi road, Uhunmwonde local government area (LGA), Edo state.

According to eyewitnesses, no fewer than three persons were rushed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in the aftermath of the explosion.

TheCable reported a source at the gas station said the explosion was caused by “the substandard conversion kits and cylinder used in the installation of the CNG on the Audi 80 salon car”.

Addressing the incident, Oluwagbemi expressed concern for the victims, adding that the damaged cylinder involved had been illegally modified and was not authorised for CNG use.

“It was revealed that a thorough examination of the cylinder involved in the incident showed it had been welded, modified, and was not approved for use with CNG,” he said.

“The police, regulatory authorities, and NIPCO’s management are conducting a detailed investigation into the incident, with Pi-CNG coordinating closely with them.”

Oluwagbemi explained the significance of the upcoming Nigeria gas vehicle monitoring system, a joint initiative by Pi-CNG and partners such as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

He said the monitoring system will help identify and address potential risks in the CNG ecosystem, ensuring that the safer, cheaper, cleaner, and more reliable fuel source remains safe for all.

Oluwagbemi emphasised that the system aims to prevent explosions and other CNG-related risks by identifying bad actors within the sector.