Commuters on the Abuja–Kaduna railway corridor faced a harrowing ordeal on Tuesday when a passenger train derailed just after leaving the Federal Capital Territory around 11 a.m.
The derailment caused several carriages to overturn, prompting frightened passengers to rush out of the cabins. Witnesses say the atmosphere was chaotic, as people struggled to find safety.
An eyewitness recalled the frightening scene:
“It is a complete pandemonium. People who were confirmed to be saved were seen running in different directions. It was pure panic. We can not confirm if everyone is safe yet but we pray everyone comes out alive.”
Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, confirmed the incident in a telephone call with journalists. He emphasized that rescue operations had already begun and more information would be made available soon.
So far, no casualties have been officially confirmed, although the cause of the derailment remains under investigation.
The Abuja–Kaduna rail line remains one of Nigeria’s busiest rail corridors. Over the years, it has faced multiple disruptions, most notably the March 2022 terrorist attack in which several lives were lost and dozens abducted.
Frontpagenews.ng reports that security agencies, emergency responders, and railway officials are collaborating to ensure all passengers are accounted for and safe.
