The (NRC) has dismissed reports that a passenger train operating on the derailed on Monday, clarifying that the train remained on track throughout the incident.
The occurrence reportedly took place along the Asham axis of the rail corridor, sparking initial reports that a derailment had occurred.
However, the corporation explained that a derailment happens only when the wheels of a train leave the track, which was not the case in this situation.
According to the NRC, the train successfully continued its journey and later arrived safely at in , where passengers disembarked.
Incident linked to detached locomotive
The (NSIB) has since launched an investigation into the incident involving the passenger train identified as KA2.
In a statement by the bureau’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, , the event occurred at about 09:16 a.m. along the Jere–Asham section near Asham Station in .
The train had departed from in Kaduna for its scheduled journey to Abuja.
It arrived at Jere Station at about 08:52 a.m., where a rear locomotive was attached to provide additional support for the remainder of the journey.
Shortly after leaving the station, the rear locomotive reportedly became detached while the train was moving along a downward section of the track.
The detached locomotive rolled forward and collided with the rear part of the train, resulting in what authorities described as a serious operational occurrence.
Safety bureau begins investigation
The Director-General of the , , said the bureau had begun gathering evidence to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to him, investigators will examine technical, operational and infrastructure-related factors, including train configuration, locomotive attachment systems and operational procedures.
He also expressed concern for passengers who sustained injuries during the incident and praised the swift response of NRC personnel and emergency teams.
The bureau stated that it would continue working closely with the Nigerian Railway Corporation and other relevant agencies as the investigation progresses.
