TRAIN DERAILS: Abuja- Kaduna Passengers Flee in Panic

In a distressing incident, a passenger train traveling from Abuja to Kaduna derailed on Tuesday morning, sending shockwaves through the rail community. The incident occurred shortly after the train departed Abuja around 11 a.m., leaving several carriages overturned and passengers scrambling for safety.

Eyewitness accounts describe the scene as chaotic and frightening, with passengers rushing out of the derailed cabins without warning. “It is a complete pandemonium,” one eyewitness said, capturing the intensity of the moment.

“People who were confirmed to be saved were seen running in different directions. It was pure panic. We cannot confirm if everyone is safe yet, but we pray everyone comes out alive.”

The Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation, Kayode Opeifa, confirmed the incident and assured that a rescue operation is currently underway at the scene. “I don’t want to say much for now, but the incident is confirmed and the rescue operation is on as we speak,” Opeifa said in a telephone conversation, providing a glimpse into the ongoing response efforts.

As the situation unfolds, concerns are growing about the safety and maintenance of Nigeria’s rail infrastructure. The Kaduna-Abuja rail line is one of the country’s most active rail corridors, used daily by hundreds of commuters.

The route has faced repeated disruptions over the years, including a devastating terrorist attack in March 2022 that left several dead and many abducted.

The incident has left many questions unanswered, particularly regarding the cause of the derailment and the extent of any potential injuries or damage.

As the rescue operation continues, passengers and their families are anxiously awaiting news of the situation.

The circumstances surrounding the derailment are still unclear, and an investigation is expected to be launched to determine the cause of the incident.

The outcome of this investigation will likely have significant implications for the rail industry and the safety measures in place.

For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of those affected and providing support to those in need. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety and maintenance in the rail sector.