News
CNG-Powered Vehicle Explosion in Benin.

On Wednesday, a tragic incident occurred at the NIPCO filling station located at Ikpoba Hill, along the Benin-Auchi expressway, as a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered vehicle exploded, resulting in injuries to several individuals. Eyewitness accounts and circulating viral videos depict the aftermath of the explosion, which left the vehicle in disarray.
According to reports, three people sustained varying degrees of injuries and were promptly transported to a private hospital for necessary medical treatment. This incident has sparked significant discussions regarding the safety implications of converting petrol-powered vehicles to CNG, a transition that has been actively promoted by the Nigerian government.
In response to the explosion, the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI), tasked with advocating for this conversion, offered their condolences to the victims while clarifying the circumstances surrounding the incident. The PCNGI revealed that the vehicle involved had been illegally modified, deviating from approved safety protocols.
In their official statement, the PCNGI expressed, “We commiserate with those injured in this avoidable incident and are grateful that no lives were lost. A thorough examination of the vehicle’s cylinder confirms it was improperly welded and modified, making it unfit for CNG use.”
Furthermore, the PCNGI emphasized the critical importance of safe handling and conversion practices for hydrocarbon fuels. They are currently collaborating with police and regulatory authorities, including the management of NIPCO, to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the explosion.
This incident underscores the urgency of launching the Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System, which aims to enhance regulatory oversight and eliminate unsafe practices within the sector. The PCNGI urged stakeholders to fully support this initiative and to patronize only accredited conversion centers, reinforcing that safety should remain paramount in the transition to CNG as a vehicle fuel.
As the investigation unfolds, it is essential for all parties involved to commit to regulatory compliance to foster a safer and more reliable fuel source for all Nigerians.
Tragedy strikes in Benin, Edo State as a gas powered vehicle exploded at a CNG station causing panic and injuries.🙆💔 pic.twitter.com/TQgpfxoxlH
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) October 17, 2024
Foreign
UK Deploys Military Assets to Middle East Amidst Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict.

In response to the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, the United Kingdom is deploying fighter jets and other military assets to the Middle East. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the deployment, stating it is for “contingency support.”
The Prime Minister has engaged in discussions with both US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing the need for de-escalation. Foreign Secretary David Lammy has also communicated with Iranian officials, urging restraint and emphasizing the importance of protecting civilians.
The UK’s actions reflect a commitment to regional stability and a concerted effort to prevent further escalation of the conflict. Ongoing discussions with allies aim to de-escalate the situation and promote a peaceful resolution.
Foreign
A person who attacked and killed a Nigerian schoolboy with a sword in the UK has been sentenced to life in prison.

Marcus Monzo, a 37-year-old of Spanish-Brazilian descent, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 years for the murder of 14-year-old Daniel Anjorin in Hainault, northeast London. The sentencing follows Monzo’s conviction for the unprovoked and brutal attack on Daniel, as well as attacks on other members of the public and police officers, in April of last year.
The court heard how Monzo, under the influence of cannabis-induced psychosis, initiated a violent rampage, culminating in the near-decapitation of Daniel Anjorin as the young boy walked to school. Judge Joel Bennathan strongly condemned Monzo’s actions, acknowledging the profound grief inflicted upon Daniel’s family.
Judge Bennathan also commended the bravery of the police officers involved, highlighting their courage in confronting and disarming Monzo, thereby protecting the public. Monzo’s sentence reflects the severity of his crimes and the devastating impact on the victims and the community.
News
Chinese Tax Fraud Suspect Apprehended in Nigeria, Repatriated to China.

In a coordinated effort between the Nigeria Police Force and Chinese authorities, a Chinese national wanted on charges of tax fraud has been arrested in Lagos and repatriated to China. The suspect, Chen Gaochong, was apprehended on June 24 following an operation led by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Abuja, prompted by a formal request from the Chinese government.
Mr. Chen is accused by the Peixian Public Security Bureau in Jiangsu Province of issuing falsified Value Added Tax (VAT) invoices totaling 4.97 million renminbi (approximately N1,057,561,330). He allegedly used the names of Linhai Guangyong and Linhai Beilaisi to generate 45 fake VAT invoices issued to Xuzhou Wanfeng Plastic Industry Company between May and August 2017.
Authorities stated that Mr. Chen fled China in November 2019, moving through Hong Kong and Burkina Faso before unlawfully entering Nigeria in 2021. He reportedly avoided renewing his passport to conceal his identity. An arrest warrant was issued in July 2020.
Mr. Chen was handed over to Chinese law enforcement on July 3. Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun affirmed that Nigeria will not serve as a refuge for fugitives, emphasizing the significance of international cooperation in combating cross-border crime. The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to collaborating with international law enforcement agencies and upholding mutual legal assistance obligations.
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News4 hours ago
Chinese Tax Fraud Suspect Apprehended in Nigeria, Repatriated to China.
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Foreign4 hours ago
A person who attacked and killed a Nigerian schoolboy with a sword in the UK has been sentenced to life in prison.
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Foreign4 hours ago
UK Deploys Military Assets to Middle East Amidst Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict.