Several injured as Kano-bound train derails in Niger State

Several people were left with different degrees of injuries when a train heading to Kano derailed later on Monday. The unpleasant incident took place between Maikunkele and Jangaru in Bosso Local Government Area of Niger State.

According to New Telegraph, the accident was caused by cattle crossing the railway, which the train rammed into as it couldn’t suddenly stop upon seeing the cows.

Eyewitness account indicated that the two first-class coaches joined to the engine were not affected but the canteen and the second class coaches reportedly fell off the rail track while in motion, leading it to derail.

Many of the passengers, confused and seeking to avoid becoming casualties, struggled to escape through the windows of the affected coaches, leading to the injuries.

The train was said to be coming from Lagos and heading to Kano before the incident, with five coaches in all affected as the train had been on the rail for the past three days before the incident.

Some of the passengers who were not injured had to seek alternative transportation that would ensure they continue with their journey to Kano.

A source who pleaded anonymity said an ambulance from the Nigeria Railway Corporation convened the injured passengers to the General hospital, Wushishi for treatment.