I await full briefing on Abuja–Kaduna train disaster says Tinubu

Bola Tinubu has commiserated with the passengers of the Abuja–Kaduna train, which derailed on Tuesday along the Kaduna corridor, saying that he was awaiting for a full briefing to ensure swift action and support for all those affected.

Meanwhile, Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, NRC, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, has taken full responsibility for the derailment.

This came as the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Mr. Peter Obi, called for renewed public trust in Nigeria’s transport infrastructure, following the recent derailment.

The incident occurred on Tuesday along the Kaduna corridor shortly after the train left Abuja at about 11am., en route to Kaduna.

NRC said the train was conveying 583 passengers and 15 NRC crew members.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, NSIB, also confirmed that six people sustained injuries in the derailment, with no fatalities.

A passenger on board the train described the scene as chaotic, with people scrambling to safety.

Tinubu, on his official X handle, said that he awaits a full briefing to ensure swift action and support for all those affected.

He also said that necessary steps were expected to be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

“Even while in Brazil, I have received reports of today’s (Tuesday’s) Abuja–Kaduna train derailment. I am deeply saddened by this incident. My heartfelt prayers are with the injured, their families, and all passengers who went through this distressing experience.

“I am staying updated on the latest developments and await a full briefing to ensure swift action and support for all affected. The NRC is already addressing the situation, and necessary steps are expected to be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future,” Tinubu added.