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NIPCO Gas Ltd. has warned motorists and owners of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-converted vehicles against the use of substandard, uncertified or inappropriate cylinders and conversion components. The warning, follows an explosion involving a CNG-powered Toyota Camry at its filling station on Airport Road, Abuja.
The incident occurred at about 10:30 a.m. on Sunday at the NIPCO Gas Filling Station, Airport Road, Abuja, FCT.
According to preliminary findings by the company, the vehicle, with registration number MAP-962 JU, had been fitted with an additional cylinder that was described as spurious and neither approved nor suitable for CNG use. NIPCO said the cylinder ruptured shortly after refuelling commenced, resulting in an explosion that damaged the vehicle.
However, the company said no fatalities, injuries or casualties were recorded in the incident. It said station personnel responded promptly in line with established emergency response procedures, while the driver was retained at the station to assist with ongoing enquiries.
NIPCO added that relevant regulatory and security authorities would be informed for further investigation. The company stressed that the incident underscored the serious safety risks associated with the use of uncertified or inappropriate components in CNG conversion systems.
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“Motorists and CNG vehicle owners are strongly advised to ensure that all CNG cylinders, conversion systems, and associated components are approved, certified, and installed only by duly authorised and qualified personnel,” the company said.
It warned that the use of spurious, uncertified or unsuitable cylinders and components was strictly discouraged.
NIPCO, however, reaffirmed that CNG remained a safe and reliable fuel when approved equipment, proper conversion procedures and applicable safety standards were strictly followed.
The company said its safety protocols remained paramount, urging CNG vehicle owners to ensure that their vehicles were converted and maintained in accordance with approved standards to prevent incidents arising from the use of unsuitable equipment.
