Abuja-Kaduna train derailment leaves carriages overturned and passengers in panic as rescue operations commence. No casualties confirmed yet
Abuja-Kaduna train derailment caused widespread panic on Tuesday morning after several coaches overturned along the busy rail corridor, shortly after departing Abuja around 11 a.m..
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The incident, which occurred just minutes into the journey, sent passengers fleeing in fear as the derailed train came to a sudden halt.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion and panic, with many passengers scrambling to exit the overturned coaches.
“It was pure pandemonium. People were running in all directions. Those who were safe were trying to help others. We just pray no lives were lost,” one survivor told PUNCH Online.
Though the exact cause of the derailment is still unknown, emergency teams have arrived at the scene to manage the situation and assist passengers.
Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), confirmed the incident via a telephone call with reporters.
“I don’t want to say much for now, but the incident is confirmed and the rescue operation is on as we speak,” Opeifa stated.
As of the time of reporting, no casualties have been officially confirmed, although a full passenger manifest and damage report are still being assessed.
The Abuja–Kaduna railway line is one of the busiest in Nigeria, serving hundreds of commuters daily.
It gained national attention following the March 2022 terrorist attack that left several passengers dead and dozens abducted.
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This derailment once again raises concerns over railway safety in Nigeria, with many calling for urgent investment in infrastructure integrity and passenger security.
Source: Read more at tvcnews.tv
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
