The management of NIPCO Gas Ltd has clarified that a fake Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) cylinder installed in a vehicle (not by NIPCO) is responsible for the explosion that occurred at its station located in Eyean, Benin City, Edo State on Wednesday.
In a statement yesterday, the Gas company noted its preliminary findings showed that the explosion occurred when a vehicle arrived at the station for CNG refuelling.
The company further alleged that the cylinder installed in the vehicle — later identified as a fake and fabricated, substandard unit not designed for CNG — exploded after filling with just around 4 SCM of gas.
“The driver fled the scene immediately after the incident,” the statement revealed.
The company also identified that two individuals sustained injuries. One person suffered a leg injury, and another sustained an eye injury.
“Both victims were promptly rushed to the hospital for medical attention. Based on the attending doctor’s recommendation, one of the individuals will require surgery at a different hospital. Our team is ensuring they receive the necessary care and treatment.
“The incident has been reported at the local police station and the police have taken custody of fake cylinder pieces and the car involved in the incident,” the statement read.
The company further noted that the incident underscores the dangers of unauthorised CNG installations by unqualified technicians using non-compliant cylinders, which it said it has always campaigned against.
“As a precautionary measure, the operations at the affected station are suspended to express our solidarity with those impacted by the incident. We remain resolute in our efforts to provide safe and reliable infrastructure for the growth of CNG as an alternative automotive fuel in Nigeria. We assure the public and our valued customers that safety remains paramount in all our operations.
“NIPCO Gas Ltd. will continue to uphold the highest industry standards to ensure the well-being of all stakeholders. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Thank you for your understanding,” the statement concluded