The federal government has finally reacted to the recent CNG-powered vehicle explosion at the NIPCO filling station in Aduwawa, Benin, Edo State.

Speaking on TVC this afternoon, the Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Joseph Osanipin, urged Nigerians to prioritize safety when converting their vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

The explosion, which occurred on Wednesday, left three individuals severely injured, including a motorist who suffered significant eye injuries.

According to a filling station attendant, a woman was critically injured with her stomach ripped open, while another person had to undergo a foot amputation due to the blast.

All injured parties are currently receiving treatment at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).

The incident was traced back to a cylinder that had been improperly fabricated by a welder lacking the necessary approvals.

Osanipin reiterated the importance of using only accredited CNG conversion centers to ensure the safety of both vehicles and their occupants.

“If you want to convert your vehicle, go to accredited CNG conversion centres to ensure safety; don’t go to roadside mechanics,” he advised.

He pointed out the government’s efforts, noting that six agencies are currently working on the Presidential CNG Initiative to bolster safety measures and expand the service network for CNG-powered vehicles.

Osanipin urged all Nigerians to remain vigilant and informed about the risks associated with unregulated CNG conversions, stressing that safety must always come first.