The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has explained the reasons behind the derailment of the Abuja-Kaduna train, News About Nigeria reports.
The Deputy Director of Public Relations, Yakub Mahmood, explained this in a statement on Wednesday.
He disclosed that the technical hitch experienced on the Abuja-Kaduna train route on Wednesday evening was due to the removal of the track fastening clips by vandals.
According to him, the vandals removed the track fastening clips, which led to the derailment at Asham Railway Station in Kaduna State.
He, however, assured the people that the corporation is committed to ensuring that the lives and properties of passengers remain safe.
He also stated that due to the minor issue, the first train from Kaduna (Rigasa) scheduled for 08.00 hours would be cancelled on Thursday, June 6, 2024, while all other train services would run as scheduled.
He disclosed that all passengers on board were safely returned to Abuja, adding that their tickets remain valid for a subsequent journey within two weeks.
“This minor hitch is attributed to the removal of track fastening clips by vandals. However, NRC management remains resolute about ensuring the safety of our valued passengers throughout the entire system.
“For operational reasons, the first train from Kaduna (Rigasa) scheduled for 08.00 hours will be cancelled on Thursday 6th June, 2024 only, while all other train services will run as scheduled.
“NRC Management deeply regrets the inconveniences that this technical hitch might have caused our esteemed passengers,” he stated.
Recall that a train travelling from Abuja to Kaduna derailed at Asha station, which left many passengers stranded in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The corporation’s management, however, condemned the vandalism, noting that it is working to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
