Thursday, October 17, 2024 will be etched in the memory of residents of Benin City, as a disturbing video circulated on social media, showing a vehicle in ruins after an explosion, leaving terrified passersby fleeing in panic following the loud blast.
The tragic incident happened in the morning at the NIPCO filling station on Aduwawa along the Benin-Auchi expressway. According to reports, the explosion occurred when an unlicensed technician, who had carried out the installation, and the owner of the vehicle went to the filling station to conduct a test run.
Three persons, injured in the explosion, were rushed to the Benin Teaching Hospital, Ugbowo for treatment.
The explosion has heightened safety fears among many Nigerians over the conversion of petrol vehicles to CNG. The implementation of the CNG initiative, initiated by the administration of President Bola Tinubu, is aimed at reducing transportation costs following the removal of gasoline subsidies, while creating an energy mix to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
In a statement, the Presidential CNG Initiative expressed sympathy for the injured and stressed the importance of safe use of all hydrocarbons. Examination of the cylinder involved in the incident revealed an illegal conversion, leading authorities to launch an investigation.
This situation highlights the urgent need for authorities and industry stakeholders to collaborate on Nigeria’s future gas vehicle monitoring system. The system, inclusive of several regulatory agencies, aims to ensure safer, greener and more reliable gas use.
As investigations continue, it is imperative for all stakeholders in the sector to get involved in implementing adequate regulations to ensure the safety of all.
Recalling the potential of CNG as a cleaner and more affordable energy source, it is essential that strict safety measures are implemented to avoid future tragic incidents such as the one that occurred in Benin City.