Abuja-Kaduna Train: NRC gives reason for derailment

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has revealed that the technical hitch experienced on the Abuja-Kaduna train route that led to train derailment on Wednesday evening was due to the removal of the track fastening clips by vandals.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Deputy Director of Public Relations, Yakub Mahmood, on Thursday.

The statement explained that the vandals had removed the track fastening clips which led to the derailment at Asham Railway Station in Kaduna State.

“This minor hitch is attributed to the removal of track fastening clips by vandals. However, the NRC Management remains resolute towards ensuring the safety of our valued passengers in the entire system”, it said.

Read Also: Health Sector Tracker: How Niger, Kogi states health sector fared financially in two years

It could be recalled that a train travelling from Abuja to Kaduna derailed at Asha station, which left many passengers stranded in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

The statement, however, said that all passengers on board were safely returned to Abuja, adding that their tickets remained valid for a subsequent journey within two weeks.

The NRC Management also apologized for the inconvenience caused, assuring that it remains committed to ensuring the safety of its passengers.

“For operational reasons, the first train from Kaduna (Rigasa) scheduled for 08.00 hours will be canceled on Thursday 6th June, 2024 only, while all other train services will run as scheduled.

“NRC Management deeply regret the inconveniences that this technical hitch might have caused our esteemed passengers”, It said.

NRC management, however, condemned the vandalism, noting that it is working to ensure that such incidents do not recur.