The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed that six passengers sustained injuries on Tuesday at 11:09 am after a Kaduna-bound train derailed at Kilometre 49 between Kubwa and Asham stations.
NSIB said that the accident prompted the deployment of a go-team to the site to gather evidence, engage stakeholders, and begin an investigation into the accident.
The incident was reported to have occurred along the busy corridor shortly after the train left Abuja around 11 am on its way to Kaduna.
The derailment threw passengers into panic, forcing many of them to flee for safety, while eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic and terrifying.
One passenger recounted that the train went off the tracks without warning, sparking confusion as people scrambled out of the affected cabins.
Another passenger, who managed to contact family after the derailment, said: ‘People were running in different directions, not knowing what might happen next. It was terrifying’.
Security sources disclosed that military personnel were quickly deployed to the site to secure the area and help evacuate passengers.
NSIB’s Director General, Captain Alex Badeh further said: ‘We deeply sympathise with all who sustained injuries. The Bureau has deployed investigators to the site to ensure the root cause of this derailment is uncovered.
‘Our commitment is to ensure safer rail transport for Nigerians through a transparent and independent investigation’.
The Bureau assured that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
‘Full compliment of security already on ground as effort is ongoing to move all passengers on train back to Abuja safely’,Opeifa stated, adding that investigations into the cause of the derailment were underway.
The Abuja-Kaduna rail line, one of Nigeria’s busiest, has previously been the subject of public concern following security breaches and operational challenges.
Tuesday’s derailment, though without immediate reports of casualties, has reignited worries about the safety of rail travel in the country.
