ABUJA, Nigeria — Several passengers have sustained injuries after a train travelling on the busy rail corridor between Kaduna and Abuja was involved in a mid-journey incident on Monday morning.
The Abuja-bound service was forced to an abrupt halt following what witnesses described as a “loud bang” and a violent collision. The incident caused widespread panic among commuters on a route that serves as a vital link between the capital and the north of the country.
‘People Were Flinging Across’
The disruption occurred at approximately 09:00 local time. Eyewitnesses reported that the train jolted suddenly, throwing passengers from their seats and against the interior metal fittings of the coaches.
Sada Malumfashi, a passenger on board the service, described the chaotic scenes on social media shortly after arriving at a station on the outskirts of Abuja.
“We heard a loud bang, and the train jolted to a stop, flinging people across,” he wrote. “Passengers got hit, and most are bleeding and severely injured.”
He added that the train remained stationary for roughly 30 minutes before resuming its journey at a reduced speed toward Kubwa. He also noted a lack of immediate communication from the rail authorities during the crisis.
Official Confirmation
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed the development. While initial reports from passengers suggested a possible collision with another train on the track, official investigators are still assessing the exact cause of the mechanical or operational failure.
Callistus Unyimadu, a spokesperson for the NRC, said the corporation was aware of the incident and stated that a formal report would be released once the situation had been fully analysed.
Security and Safety Concerns
The Abuja-Kaduna rail line has been a focal point of national attention in recent years. In 2022, the corridor was the site of a major insurgent attack that led to a months-long suspension of services.
While Monday’s incident appears to be an operational or technical mishap rather than a security breach, it has reignited concerns regarding safety standards and emergency response protocols on Nigeria’s flagship rail project.
Medical teams were reportedly on standby at the Kubwa and Idu stations to treat those with cuts and bruises. Further updates are expected as the NRC continues its investigation into the cause of the jolt.
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