Abuja explosions caused by CNG Canister blasts – FCT Fire Service

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service has confirmed that the multiple explosions that rocked the Abuja-Keffi expressway on Wednesday were caused by a truck carrying Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) canisters that suffered brake failure.

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, the Public Relations Officer of the FCT Fire Service, Ibrahim Mohammad, provided details of the tragic incident.

According to Mohammad, the truck was en route to Nyanya from AYA when it lost control and crashed into multiple vehicles along the expressway.

The impact of the crash caused the CNG canisters on board to be ejected, with some flying as far as 900 meters before igniting explosions wherever they landed.

“The force of the collision caused several CNG canisters to detach from the truck, spreading across a wide area. Some exploded upon impact, leading to multiple fires and casualties,” Mohammad explained.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene to contain the fire and assist victims, but the exact number of casualties remains unknown.

Mohammad stated that search and rescue operations are still ongoing, with authorities using searchlights to examine the wreckage and determine whether any individuals were trapped inside the burnt vehicles.

“Some vehicles were completely gutted by fire, and we need to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure no one remains trapped. Rescue operations are still in progress,” he added.

The incident has sparked concerns over the safety of transporting highly flammable materials on major highways, with authorities expected to review regulations surrounding CNG transportation to prevent future tragedies.

Presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga, has, however, disputed the claims by the FCT Fire Service.

Posting a picture of a burnt CNG cannister, Onanuga said the tank was still intact in spite of the fire. He pointed out that this shows that the CNG cannisters could not have been the cause of the fire as claimed.