WSO, SafERR Institute Address CNG-Vehicle Explosion in Edo, Call for Stricter Safety Compliance

The World Safety Organization (WSO), National Office for Nigeria, and the SafERR Global Institute (SGI) have addressed the recent Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered vehicle explosion at the NIPCO filling station in Aduwawa, Benin City, Edo State.

The explosion, which occurred on October 16, 2024, resulted in several casualties who are receiving treatment at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), alongside significant property damage.

The WSO and SGU have called for immediate enforcement of safety standards to prevent future incidents.

In a joint press statement signed by Dr. Soji Olalokun, Country Director of WSO Nigeria, and Dr. Wilson Arikpo, President General/Chief Executive of SafERR Global Institute, the organizations expressed their deep concern over the incident.

The statement read:

“The World Safety Organization (WSO), National Office for Nigeria and the SafERR Global Institute (SGI), expresses deep concern over the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) – powered vehicle explosion at the NIPCO filling station in Aduwawa, Benin City, on October 16, 2024.

“The incident had some casualties (currently receiving treatments at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and property damage.

“Initial reports indicate the explosion resulted from an illegally built cylinder, fabricated by a welder, with little or no knowledge about the physical properties of the ideal CNG cylinder.

“The WSO & SGI echoes the statement from the Presidential CNG Initiative, which confirmed that such modifications pose significant risks to public safety.

“The WSO & SGI also commends the UBTH medical teams for their swift attendance and care for the casualties, as we are consoled that no lives were lost.

“The WSO & SGI emphasizes the need for strict adherence to safety standards for CNG usage. This incident underscores the risks of unauthorized modifications, highlighting the importance of patronizing only accredited CNG conversion centers.

“We urge the immediate enforcement of the Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System, in collaboration with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria and other stakeholders, to prevent future occurrences.

“We commend the ongoing investigation by the police, regulatory authorities, and NIPCO management, and support efforts to hold those responsible accountable.

“The WSO & SGI also appreciates the welder (fabricator) for turning himself in, to the authorities and urges a thorough and transparent inquiry.

“The World Safety Organization and SafERR Global Institute remains committed to the advocacy of Global Public Health, Emergency Management, Safety and Sustainability, while Making Safety a Way of Life and will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with safety regulations to prevent such incidents in the future”.