The Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI) has warned motorists against patronizing unaccredited centers to convert their vehicles from fuel or diesel to compressed natural gas (CNG)
PCNGI in a statement reacting to a CNG-powered car explosion in Benin City, Edo State said the vehicle was illegally modified and not approved.
The CNG-powered vehicle at the NIPCO filling station in Aduwawa, Benin, was said to have exploded on Wednesday, leaving three persons severely injured, including a motorist.
“The Presidential CNG Initiative notes the unfortunate incident that involved an illegally modified vehicle at a NIPCO CNG Station at Aduwawa in Benin City on Wednesday, October 16, 2024”
“The PCNGI commiserates with those injured in this avoidable incident and is thankful that no lives were lost. The PCNGI also note that the safe handling of all hydrocarbons is critical to their safe use.
“A close examination of the cylinder in question in Benin City shows it was welded and modified and not approved for use for CNG”
“This incident reiterates the impetus of the PCNGI and our partners on the soon-to-be-launched Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System at SON, NMDPRA, NADDC and FRSC to tackle any bad actors in the ecosystem that seeks to make this safer, cheaper, cleaner and more reliable source of fueling risky for all.
The initiative also called on stakeholders to ensure motorists full compliance to regulation.
“We also call on all stakeholders to cooperate with the new system of regulation and ensure full compliance. Only accredited conversion centres must be patronized and safe handling of CNG just like petrol ensures the safety of all.” The statement noted.
