Federal Probe Begins as Abuja–Kaduna Train Derails, Injures Passengers

A passenger train travelling from Abuja to Kaduna derailed on Tuesday morning, leaving several coaches overturned and sparking panic among commuters. The incident occurred at about 11:09 a.m. around KM 49, between Kubwa and Asham stations.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with passengers scrambling out of derailed cabins in fear. “It was complete pandemonium. People ran in different directions,” a passenger, Abubakar, told reporters.

Authorities have so far confirmed that at least six people were injured, though the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) later put the figure at seven. Victims were given first aid on site before being taken to nearby hospitals for further treatment.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) announced that a team of investigators has been deployed to the site to determine the cause of the derailment. “We deeply sympathise with all who sustained injuries. Our investigators will ensure the root cause of this derailment is uncovered,” said NSIB Director-General, Capt. Alex Badeh.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) confirmed the derailment, adding that emergency services and security operatives had been mobilised. “Rescue operations are ongoing, with medical personnel and security agencies working to ensure all passengers are safely evacuated back to Abuja,” the NRC said in a statement.

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State directed that full support be given to passengers and commended the swift response of emergency agencies. His Commissioner-designate for Information, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, said the governor ordered immediate rescue and relief efforts.

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The derailment is now under joint investigation by railway authorities, security agencies, and emergency responders, with officials probing whether it was due to mechanical fault, poor maintenance, or sabotage.

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, criticised railway managers, alleging negligence and pointing to longstanding safety concerns along the corridor.

The Abuja–Kaduna rail line has suffered repeated security and operational challenges. In March 2022, terrorists attacked a passenger train on the route, killing several and abducting many others. Tuesday’s mishap has revived fears among passengers who rely on the service as an alternative to the insecure Abuja–Kaduna highway.

President Bola Tinubu, currently in Brazil, expressed sadness over the incident in a statement via his official X handle. “My heartfelt prayers are with the injured, their families, and all passengers who went through this distressing experience. I am closely monitoring developments and will ensure necessary steps are taken to prevent a recurrence,” the President said.

Meanwhile, NEMA disclosed that its Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, personally led the multi-agency rescue mission, supported by the Nigerian military, police, immigration, civil defence corps, and other security outfits.

Investigators from the Ministry of Transportation are expected to release preliminary findings on the derailment in the coming days.