The Public Interest Advocacy Network (PIAN) expresses deep sorrow and outrage over the tragic loss of lives following the explosion of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tanker in Nyanya on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. Preliminary findings indicate that this devastating incident was caused by the use of substandard equipment and the reckless disregard for safety protocols by CNG installers, prioritizing profit over human lives.
This was contained in a statement issued on 21st March 2025 by Chief Madaki Omadachi Ameh Convener/National Coordinator Public Interest Advocacy Network (PIAN)
According to the statement, the disaster claimed the lives of innocent men, women, and children—victims who were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. It is yet another grim reminder of the systemic failures that continue to plague Nigeria’s regulatory and safety standards. As has been the case too often, we fear this tragedy may be ignored and buried by the authorities, allowing those responsible to evade justice.
PIAN demands an immediate and thorough investigation into this incident. We insist that all perpetrators, including the companies and individuals involved in the negligence leading to this explosion, be identified, prosecuted, and held accountable in line with the law.
Furthermore, if the government fails to conduct a transparent and conclusive investigation and publish its findings as required by law, PIAN will initiate a class action lawsuit on behalf of the victims and their families. We will pursue justice with or without the cooperation of the failed regulatory agencies whose negligence has, once again, resulted in an avoidable loss of lives.
This tragic loss must not be in vain. Nigeria cannot continue to tolerate a system where human lives are expendable. The time for justice and accountability is now.
