NRC confirms passengers injured in Abuja-Kaduna train derailment

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed the derailment of the Abuja-Kaduna passenger train, stating that due to injuries sustained by many passengers, the Corporation has mobilised nearby hospitals amid provision of tight security.

In a statement made available to our reporter, the NRC stated that efforts are on the ground to move all passengers on the train back to Abuja safely.

According to Kayode Opeifa, managing director of NRC, “The Nigerian Railway Corporation confirms a train derailment involving our Kaduna-bound AKTS train service at about 11:09 am at Km 49 between Kubwa station and Asham station.

“Emergency rescue, medical personnel, and nearby hospitals have already been mobilised.

“Full complement of security already on ground as the effort is ongoing to move all passengers on the train back to Abuja safely.

“Kindly bear with us at this moment,” the statement quoting the NRC Managing Director, Kayode Opeifa explained.

Sources states that, the derailment happened without warning, triggering confusion as passengers rushed out of the derailed cabins, thinking it was another attack on the train by armed terrorists.

The eyewitness said, “It is a complete pandemonium. People were seen running in different directions because of the fear that it could have been another terrorist attack”.

MIKE OCHONMA
EDITOR