NRC MD speaks on Abuja-Kaduna train derailment

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, has accepted full responsibility for Tuesday’s derailment of the Abuja-Kaduna passenger train.

Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Wednesday, Opeifa apologised to Nigerians, stressing that as chief executive, it was his duty to take responsibility for the incident.

“There was no fatality, but four passengers sustained serious injuries, while two others were treated and discharged.

“We will also follow up on the post-traumatic experience of the 618 passengers on board,” he said.

The NRC boss assured that investigations into the cause of the accident would be thorough and transparent, while measures would be taken to prevent a recurrence.

Opeifa noted that the Warri-Itakpe route had recently been shut down for safety repairs, saying the corporation would continue to prioritise passenger safety.

On suspicions of sabotage, he declined to speculate, insisting the investigation would determine the true cause.

He, however, maintained that the tracks remain secure, with constant monitoring by the military and surveillance from the Nigerian Air Force.