ABUJA: A passenger train travelling from Abuja to Kaduna derailed on Tuesday morning, leaving several coaches overturned and sparking panic among commuters.
The incident occurred shortly after the train departed the Federal Capital Territory around 11 a.m. Passengers were seen scampering to safety, with eyewitnesses describing the scene as chaotic and frightening.
One eyewitness recounted: t was complete pandemonium. People were rushing out of the derailed cabins, running in different directions. We cannot confirm if everyone is safe yet, but we pray all passengers make it out alive.
The Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, confirmed the accident in a telephone conversation, adding that rescue efforts were ongoing at the site.
The incident is confirmed. Rescue operation is currently on, and details will be provided in due course, he said.
Although no fatalities have been officially reported as of press time, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) later confirmed that at least six passengers sustained injuries. The exact cause of the derailment remains unknown.
The Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor is one of the country’s busiest routes, serving hundreds of daily commuters.
It has, however, witnessed several disruptions in recent years, including the March 2022 terrorist attack that claimed lives and led to the abduction of many passengers.
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm as investigations continue and rescue operations progress.
