17 RESCUED, ONE INJURED IN LAGOS CNG BUS FIRE

Seventeen passengers have been rescued after a compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered bus caught fire in Lagos, leaving one person injured.

The incident triggered an emergency response as occupants were evacuated from the vehicle before the fire could cause further casualties.

Emergency responders reportedly arrived at the scene and worked to contain the blaze, while the injured person received attention.

The incident has again drawn attention to safety concerns surrounding the growing use of CNG-powered vehicles in Nigeria, particularly as the government and transport operators increasingly promote gas as an alternative to conventional petrol and diesel.

CNG has gained attention as a potentially cheaper and cleaner transportation fuel. However, its adoption also requires strict compliance with installation standards, regular vehicle inspections and proper handling of gas storage systems.

Safety experts have consistently emphasised the importance of using certified conversion facilities and ensuring that vehicles undergo appropriate maintenance to reduce the risk of fire-related incidents.

The cause of the Lagos fire was not established in the information available, and further details are expected from the relevant authorities.

Although the incident resulted in one injury, the successful rescue of the 17 passengers prevented what could have been a more serious tragedy.

The development is likely to reinforce calls for stronger safety monitoring and public awareness as CNG-powered buses become more common on Nigerian roads.