NRC suspends Abuja-Kaduna train services after derailment

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has suspended operations on the Abuja-Kaduna corridor following Tuesday’s train derailment.

NRC Managing Director, Kayode Opeifa, announced the suspension while briefing journalists in Abuja, confirming that technical staff, officials of the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), and other relevant agencies were already at the site conducting investigations.

He dismissed claims that the trains were poorly maintained and disclosed that refunds had been initiated for all passengers affected.

Opeifa also met with some passengers at the Asham and Idu train stations in Abuja, assuring them of the corporation’s support.

According to him, six passengers sustained minor injuries and have since been treated, though the exact number of passengers on board is yet to be determined.

Meanwhile, the NSIB confirmed it has opened a probe into the derailment.

Its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, said a preliminary report indicated that no lives were lost.

NSIB Director-General, Alex Badeh Jr., expressed sympathy for those affected, noting that a team of investigators had been dispatched to the site to gather evidence and liaise with stakeholders.

“We deeply sympathise with all who sustained injuries.

“Our investigators are on ground to uncover the root cause of this derailment.

“Our commitment is to ensure safer rail transport for Nigerians through a transparent and independent investigation,” Badeh said.

The Bureau added that its probe would examine both immediate and underlying factors, with recommendations to prevent future occurrences.

It also pledged continued support for affected passengers.

The derailment occurred around 11 a.m. on Tuesday, shortly after the train departed Abuja for Kaduna.

Passengers described the scene as chaotic as many scrambled to safety.