A devastating incident occurred on Thursday morning in Benin City, Edo State, when a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered vehicle exploded at the NIPCO filling station in Aduwawa, along the Benin-Auchi Expressway.

The explosion sent shockwaves through the area, causing widespread panic as onlookers and residents fled for safety. Footage of the aftermath, now viral on social media, captures the chaotic scene with debris scattered across the vicinity.

Eyewitnesses reported a loud, deafening blast that heightened fear among nearby residents, many of whom scrambled to find cover.

Three individuals sustained injuries of varying degrees and were immediately rushed to a nearby private hospital for urgent medical attention.

This tragic event highlights growing concerns over the safety of converting petrol-powered vehicles to CNG, a practice increasingly encouraged by the Federal Government of Nigeria as a cost-saving measure following the removal of fuel subsidies.

As CNG gains popularity, particularly in urban areas, the explosion has reignited debates over the adequacy of safety protocols in the implementation of such conversions. Many now call for stricter regulations and enhanced safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Local authorities are yet to issue a formal statement on the cause of the explosion, but investigations are ongoing.

Watch the video below …