The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has suspended operations on the Abuja-Kaduna rail service following the derailment of a passenger train on Tuesday morning.
At least six people were reported injured in the accident.
The incident, which occurred around 11am shortly after the train departed Abuja for Kaduna, sparked panic among passengers, with some of them scrambling out in fear.
Managing Director of NRC, Kayode Opeifa, told journalists in Abuja that the suspension would remain in place until investigations are concluded and safety fully guaranteed.
He confirmed that six passengers sustained minor injuries and have since received medical attention.
Opeifa, however, did not state the exact number of passengers on board, saying that was still being verified.
“We have initiated refund processes for all ticket holders. Our technical staff, in collaboration with the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and other agencies, are on site carrying out investigations,” he said.
The managing director dismissed speculations that the trains were poorly maintained, adding that the suspension was a precautionary measure.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) announced that it had dispatched a special “go-team” to the site to collect evidence, engage stakeholders, and determine the root cause of the derailment.
NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, confirmed that no fatalities were recorded, but six passengers sustained injuries.
Quoting the Director General, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., the Bureau expressed sympathy with those affected.
“We deeply sympathise with all who sustained injuries. Our investigators are on ground to uncover the cause of this derailment. The NSIB is committed to ensuring safer rail transport for Nigerians through a transparent and independent investigation,” Badeh stated.
The Bureau added that the probe would focus on both the immediate cause and the underlying systemic factors that may have contributed to the incident.
Some passengers described the moments after the derailment as chaotic, with many scrambling to safety, fearing a possible attack reminiscent of the 2022 train attack on the same route.
The NSIB said it is providing support to affected passengers and their families while promising to release interim findings soon.
The NRC said it has also opened hotlines for passengers seeking refunds and further information.
