Panic erupted in in the early hours of Sunday after a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered bus exploded at a motor park, raising fresh concerns about the safety of gas-powered vehicles in Nigeria’s transport system.
The explosion, which occurred around 2 a.m. at the , destroyed at least one luxury bus and damaged another, scattering debris across the terminal. Eyewitnesses described the blast as loud and forceful, sending shockwaves through nearby areas and causing widespread panic among residents.
A worker at the park, Umar Mohammed, clarified that the incident was not a security attack but a gas-related explosion. He explained that the impact tore through two buses, while efforts were ongoing to clear debris from the scene. As of the time of reporting, there was no confirmed information regarding casualties, although the relatively quiet timing of the incident may have reduced the risk of loss of life.
Residents living around the motor park reported hearing a loud bang that disrupted the calm of the night, though normalcy has since been restored in the area.
Attempts to get an official response from the police were unsuccessful, as the spokesperson could not be reached. A police officer at a division in Mando also declined to comment, citing lack of authorisation.
Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the explosion, but preliminary considerations point to possible mechanical failure, improper handling of gas systems, or lapses in safety compliance. Investigations are expected to provide clarity in the coming days.
The incident comes amid Nigeria’s growing adoption of CNG-powered vehicles as part of efforts to reduce transportation costs and transition to cleaner energy sources following fuel subsidy reforms. In Kaduna State, the government had introduced CNG buses to provide subsidised transport services, easing economic pressure on residents.
However, the explosion has intensified concerns among experts, who stress that the safe use of CNG technology depends on strict adherence to safety protocols, including proper installation, regular inspection, and trained handling of gas systems. They warn that any negligence in these areas could lead to dangerous outcomes.
The Kaduna incident is likely to prompt renewed calls for stricter regulatory oversight, improved safety infrastructure, and increased public awareness as Nigeria continues its shift towards gas-powered transportation.
