Michael Oluwagbemi, Project Director and CEO of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (Pi-CNG) has addressed public fears following a CNG-powered vehicle explosion in Edo State.
Speaking on the Morning Crossfire show on 9.3 Nigeria Info, Oluwagbemi confirmed that the incident occurred at a NIPCO filling station along the Benin-Auchi Expressway, leaving three people injured. He emphasised that while CNG is generally safer than petrol or diesel, improper handling can lead to dangerous consequences, as seen in this case.
The vehicle in question was reportedly modified illegally to run on CNG. Authorities, including the Nigerian Mainstream Downstream Regulatory Authority, are investigating, and arrests have been made.
The explosion highlights the risks posed by unauthorised and substandard modifications. Oluwagbemi reassured Nigerians that when CNG vehicles are properly outfitted and maintained, they are a safer and cleaner alternative to petrol.
However, he stressed the importance of following regulations to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers.
As the country moves toward wider CNG adoption, driven by the government’s desire to reduce fuel costs and reliance on imported petrol, Oluwagbemi urged Nigerians to adhere strictly to safety protocols.
He warned that economic saboteurs attempting to bypass regulations will face the full force of the law, ensuring that CNG remains a viable and safe alternative for the Nigerian populace.