Atiku Calls For Urgent Probe Into Abuja-Kaduna Train Derailment, Urges Safety Overhaul.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the recent derailment of a passenger train on the Abuja-Kaduna route, which left at least six passengers injured. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday morning at Jere town, has sparked widespread concern about the safety of Nigeria’s rail infrastructure.
In a statement posted on his verified X account, Atiku expressed relief that no fatalities were recorded but stressed that the accident exposed critical lapses in the nation’s railway system. “I am deeply concerned about the derailment of the Abuja-Kaduna train, which resulted in injuries to at least six passengers. It is a relief that there were no fatalities, but this incident underscores the urgent need for action,” he said. He urged the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to conduct a transparent probe to determine the cause of the derailment and prevent future occurrences.
The NRC confirmed that the train, carrying 583 passengers and 15 crew members, derailed at a rail junction near Asham Station, causing several carriages to overturn. Emergency teams, including medical personnel and security operatives, were swiftly deployed to the scene, with the injured receiving treatment at nearby medical facilities. The NSIB has launched an investigation, deploying a go-team to collect evidence and engage stakeholders to ascertain whether the incident resulted from human error, track issues, or other factors.
Atiku’s call for reform echoes broader concerns about the safety of the Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor, which has faced challenges in recent years, including a terrorist attack in March 2022 that resulted in fatalities and abductions. He emphasised the need for stronger safety protocols to restore public confidence in the rail system. “We need transparent updates and a commitment to strengthening safety measures that will rebuild public trust in our rail infrastructure,” he added.
The Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, confirmed that a federal committee has been established to investigate the derailment and recommend measures to enhance the safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s rail network. The House of Representatives has also summoned the minister to address the recurring mishaps on the corridor, following a motion by Hon. Umar Ajilo, who described the incidents as a potential “national calamity” if not addressed.
Public reactions, as seen in posts on X, reflect growing frustration with the state of rail safety, with many Nigerians echoing Atiku’s demand for accountability. The derailment has reignited debates about the need for continuous investment in critical infrastructure to ensure passenger safety and reliability.
As investigations continue, Atiku’s intervention highlights the urgency of addressing systemic issues in Nigeria’s transport sector, with stakeholders hopeful that the findings will lead to lasting reforms.
