The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into a railway incident involving a passenger train conveying 429 passengers on the Rigasa–Idu corridor after a detached locomotive struck the rear of the train near Asham Station in Kaduna State.
The bureau disclosed this on Monday in a statement signed by its Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Funke Arowojobe.
NSIB said the incident occurred at about 9:16 a.m. on the Jere–Asham section of the rail line during the train’s scheduled service from Rigasa in Kaduna to Idu in Abuja.
According to preliminary information released by the agency, the train, identified as KA2, departed Rigasa Railway Station at the start of its morning service and arrived at Jere Station at about 8:52 a.m.
It departed again at 8:59 a.m. after a rear locomotive was attached to assist with operations along the corridor.
However, shortly after leaving Jere Station, the rear locomotive became detached while the train was moving along a downward gradient toward Asham.
The locomotive subsequently rolled forward and collided with the rear portion of the train.
The train consisted of two locomotives positioned at the front and rear, one power car, two business class coaches and six standard passenger coaches.
Aside from the 429 passengers onboard, the service also had 46 crew members and 24 security personnel.
Although no fatalities were recorded, some passengers sustained injuries during the incident. Officials of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and security personnel onboard the train immediately initiated response efforts, while medical personnel provided first aid to injured passengers.
The train later continued its journey to Idu Station in Abuja, arriving at about 10:39 a.m., where further assistance was rendered to passengers.
NSIB said its investigators have begun examining evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the occurrence, focusing on technical, operational and infrastructure-related factors.
Director General of the bureau, Captain Alex Badeh expressed concern over the incident and assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine its cause and improve railway safety.
He also commended the swift response of NRC personnel and emergency teams who assisted affected passengers.
The bureau said it would continue to collaborate with the Nigerian Railway Corporation and other relevant agencies as the investigation progresses.
