The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has launched an inquiry into a railway incident involving a passenger train on the Rigasa–Idu rail corridor, following reports that some passengers sustained injuries during the journey.
In a statement signed by Funke Arowojobe, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the bureau, the incident occurred around 09:16 hours along the Jere–Asham section near Asham Station, on a downward gradient of the track.
The train, identified as KA2, departed Rigasa Railway Station in Kaduna at the start of its scheduled journey to Idu Station. Operating within its service window from 07:15 to 10:01, the train reached Jere Station at 08:52 and left again at 08:59 to continue toward Abuja.
Upon leaving Jere Station, a rear locomotive was attached to the train to provide additional operational support. Shortly after, the rear locomotive detached and rolled forward, striking the rear portion of the train, creating what the bureau described as a “serious operational occurrence.”
“At the time of the incident, the train consisted of two locomotives at the front and rear, one power car, two business class coaches, and six standard passenger coaches, carrying 429 passengers. Onboard personnel included 46 crew members and 24 security personnel,” the bureau said.
No fatalities were reported, but some passengers sustained injuries. Immediate response actions were taken by Nigerian Railway Corporation staff and security personnel onboard, while medical teams provided first aid. The train later continued to Idu Station in Abuja, arriving around 10:39 hours, where further assistance was provided.
Investigators are collecting evidence and analysing factors including train configuration, locomotive attachment systems, operational procedures, and relevant data. Alex Badeh Jr., Director-General of the bureau, expressed concern for the injured passengers and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to determining the cause of the incident.
“This incident reminds us that every transport journey carries the trust and expectations of hundreds of people who rely on the system to move them safely to their destination,” he said. “Our team will carefully examine every relevant factor to ensure the lessons from this occurrence lead to safer railway operations across Nigeria.”
The bureau confirmed it would work closely with the Nigerian Railway Corporation and other relevant agencies as the investigation continues, providing updates as more information becomes available.
Earlier reports indicated that passengers on the Abuja-bound train from Kaduna were temporarily stranded after colliding with another train along the rail corridor. One passenger, identified as @sadaoverall on X, described the incident:
“Just dropped from the Kaduna-Abuja train. We heard a loud bang and the train jolted to a stop, flinging people across. Passengers got hit and most are bleeding and severely injured. Train delayed for some 30 minutes and resumed to Kubwa. It happened just after the Jere station. No communication from @info_NRC on anything.”
