“Investigations are ongoing, and we don’t want to preempt the committee until it submits its report,” Alkali said.
Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Alkali, has assured Nigerians that last week’s Abuja-Kaduna train derailment was not an act of sabotage. Speaking at a briefing in Abuja alongside NRC Managing Director Kayode Opeifa, he said investigations are ongoing and urged the public to await the committee’s report.
Alkali confirmed that the “point machine” on the Abuja-Kaduna line has been fixed and stressed continued efforts to enhance rail security in collaboration with the National Security Adviser. He also disclosed plans to expand the Warri-Itakpe line to Abuja.
Opeifa apologized to journalists for alleged harassment at the accident scene, promising transparency and access to information. He clarified that the derailment was caused by an operational issue at a junction, not structural failure.
“All 618 passengers were evacuated safely; 20 sustained minor injuries and have been treated at NRC’s expense,” he said. Four of the ten derailed coaches have been removed as repairs continue to restore service.