A CNG-powered vehicle exploded at the NIPCO filling station in Aduwawa, Benin City, Edo State, on Wednesday, resulting in severe injuries to three individuals, including a motorist with eye injuries.
An attendant at the station, who wished to remain anonymous, reported that the other two victims—a woman whose stomach was severely injured and another individual who suffered a foot amputation—are currently receiving treatment at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).
The explosion was traced to a cylinder that had been improperly fabricated by a welder, who has since surrendered to the police. Eyewitnesses stated that the blast occurred while vehicles were waiting to refill their cylinders.
When The PUNCH visited the scene, technicians were seen inspecting cylinders before allowing vehicles to refill. The station manager declined to comment, citing lack of authority.
Joshua Uwaila, the Public Relations Officer of UBTH, confirmed that the motorist with the eye injury is in stable condition.
The Presidential CNG Initiative addressed the incident via Twitter, expressing sympathy for those injured and confirming that the explosion involved an illegally modified vehicle.
They emphasized the importance of safe handling of hydrocarbons and highlighted that investigations are underway involving police and regulatory authorities.
The Initiative also called for adherence to safety regulations and mentioned the upcoming launch of the Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System to ensure safe CNG usage.
