Kehinde Fajobi
The House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the CNG cylinder explosion in Edo State that led to the tragic loss of lives and severe injuries.
The investigation will seek to determine the causes of the incident and explore measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
In addition to the probe, the House is advocating for new legislation to regulate the production, installation, and use of CNG tanks and systems in vehicles.
This legislation aims to ensure adherence to international safety standards and prevent substandard CNG tanks from being manufactured by unqualified individuals.
The House took this action following the adoption of an urgent motion on public importance, sponsored by Fuad Kayode Laguda (APC, Lagos).
The motion called for collaboration between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) to enforce strict certification standards for CNG tank production and installation.
The motion also emphasises that only qualified and accredited workshops should be authorized for CNG vehicle conversions.
Additionally, the Nigerian Institute of Welding (NIW) and other relevant agencies are urged to develop training and certification programs for local artisans and workshops involved in CNG tank fabrication and installation.
Furthermore, the House called for a mandatory inspection and certification program for all vehicles using CNG.
This includes regular integrity checks of both the CNG cylinders and the vehicles, aimed at preventing dangerous failures.
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has also been directed to work with other agencies to enforce environmental safety standards in CNG tank production and usage.
The Nigerian Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) is tasked with creating clear guidelines for the safe conversion of vehicles to CNG use, ensuring that all workshops adhere to these safety protocols.
The House also suggested that the Presidential Committee on CNG Initiatives should organize nationwide sensitization programs to raise public awareness on CNG safety, maintenance procedures, and regulations.
Leading the debate, Laguda stressed the urgency of protecting Nigerians and ensuring the safe use of CNG technology, which is part of the Federal Government’s initiative to reduce reliance on imported fuel and promote cleaner, more affordable transportation.
He noted that CNG is a viable alternative fuel worldwide, but its safe use depends on the proper manufacturing, installation, and inspection of CNG tanks and systems.
Laguda expressed concern about the recent explosion in Edo State, which he said highlighted the need for safety measures in the production of CNG tanks.
He argued that without proper regulations, substandard tanks produced by unqualified artisans will continue to endanger lives, undermining the success of the Presidential CNG Initiative and leading to public mistrust in CNG technology.