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Six injured after Abuja-Kaduna train derailed near Kubwa-Asham corridor
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Survivors describe panic, many initially fearing a terrorist ambush
A Kaduna-bound passenger train derailed on Tuesday morning, leaving six people injured and sparking widespread panic among travellers.
The incident occurred at about 11:09 a.m. at KM 49 between Kubwa and Asham stations, forcing several coaches off the tracks and sending passengers scrambling for safety.
Emergency teams, security operatives, and military personnel swiftly arrived at the scene to evacuate survivors and secure the area.
Passengers narrated chaotic scenes, with many initially fearing a terrorist attack. Some clutched their belongings as they rushed out of tilted cabins, while others ran into nearby bushes before being calmed by security operatives.
A survivor, Kola, said his “life flashed” before his eyes, recalling the loud noise before the coaches toppled. Another passenger said they feared the train would completely somersault.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed the derailment and announced a probe into the cause, deploying investigators to gather evidence and issue safety recommendations.
Its Director-General, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., assured that the investigation would be transparent and aimed at ensuring safer rail transport.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) suspended train operations along the Abuja-Kaduna corridor pending the outcome of the investigation.
NRC Managing Director, Kayode Opeifa, stressed that passengers had been refunded and promised that technical teams would determine the cause of the derailment.
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Preliminary findings suggest vandalism or improper track fixing as possible causes. Officials noted that the derailment occurred at a track point where lines interchanged, raising questions over whether the switch was tampered with or poorly maintained.
The derailment revived painful memories of the March 2022 terrorist attack on the same corridor, which killed at least seven passengers and saw dozens abducted.
