The explosion, which occurred on October 16, 2024, in Aduwawa, Ikpoba Hill, injured several people and destroyed vehicles, raising concerns about safety in Nigeria’s growing CNG sector.
In a statement posted on its official X account, PCNGI expressed regret over the incident and assured the public that investigations were underway.
According to the statement, a close examination of the cylinder in question shows it was welded and modified, not approved for CNG use.
It said they are coordinating with police, regulatory authorities, and NIPCO management in a thorough investigation.
In the communication, PCNGI also emphasized the importance of safe handling of hydrocarbons and reiterated its commitment to safety through the upcoming launch of the Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System.
On its part, NIPCO, in its statement, confirmed the findings and revealed that the explosion occurred when a vehicle with a substandard, fabricated cylinder arrived for refuelling.
However, some industry experts have criticized the government for granting NIPCO extensive control over both CNG refuelling stations and vehicle conversion, warning that it could lead to a monopoly.
Since 2007, when NIPCO first presented its CNG project to the Nigerian government, the company has played a major role in promoting CNG as an alternative to gasoline. NIPCO’s partnership with the Nigerian Gas Company Limited led to the creation of NIPCO Gas, which now operates 15 CNG stations in Benin City. However, recent accusations of risky vehicle conversions and inadequate safety inspections. experts said, have raised concerns.