NIPCO has disclosed the real cause of the CNG car explosion at an Edo gas station, addressing public concerns and emphasizing the need for safety measures in gas handling and distribution.
NIPCO Gas Ltd’s management has attributed the recent explosion at their Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) station in Eyean, Benin City, Edo State, to the actions of unlicensed CNG technicians.
The event, occurring on Wednesday at approximately 5:30 p.m., resulted in injuries to three individuals.
In a statement, NIPCO clarified that the explosion happened when a vehicle with a defective CNG cylinder came to the station for refueling.
The company stated, “Regrettably, the cylinder installed in the vehicle—which was later identified as a counterfeit and substandard unit not intended for CNG—exploded after being filled with approximately 4 SCM of gas. The driver promptly fled the scene following the incident.”
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Although there were no fatalities, two people were injured. “One individual sustained a leg injury, while another suffered an eye injury. Both victims were quickly taken to the hospital for medical treatment. According to the attending doctor’s recommendation, one of them will need surgery at another hospital,” stated the report.
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NIPCO assured that its team is actively providing necessary care to the injured individuals. The incident has been reported to the police, who have taken custody of the vehicle and remnants of the faulty cylinder.
“This incident highlights the risks associated with unauthorized CNG installations by unqualified technicians using non-compliant cylinders—a practice NIPCO has consistently campaigned against,” emphasized NIPCO.
The gas company stated that it is collaborating closely with the appropriate authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future. “We have suspended operations at the affected station as a gesture of support for those impacted by this incident.”
NIPCO once again emphasized its commitment to safety across all operations, highlighting that ensuring secure infrastructure is a top priority. “We are steadfast in our mission to deliver safe and dependable infrastructure for the expansion of CNG as an alternative automotive fuel in Nigeria. Safety continues to be paramount in everything we do.”
The statement ended by assuring that additional updates would be given as more information becomes available.
