“We Thought It Was a Collision” Passengers Speak on Train Mishap

“We Thought It Was a Collision” Passengers Speak on Train Mishap
Passengers Demand Better Safety Measures
Official of the corporation in Kaduna explained that early findings point to a technical fault involving a backup locomotive attached to the train

Passengers on the Abuja–Kaduna rail line are still shaken after Monday’s train incident, sharing chilling accounts of how the situation unfolded and calling for improved safety measures.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that the incident, which occurred near Asham, left at least 22 passengers injured, with victims taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Services along the busy corridor were temporarily suspended as officials worked to stabilise the situation and restore operations.

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Speaking on the experience, one of the passengers, Ibrahim Musa, said the moment of impact came without warning.

According to him, there was a sudden heavy jolt from the rear of the train, throwing passengers into confusion and fear. Many initially thought the train had collided with another one.

He stressed the need for the Nigerian Railway Corporation to take routine technical checks more seriously, especially when it comes to coupling locomotives.

Another passenger, Grace Daniel, described how panic spread quickly, particularly in the rear coach where most of the injuries occurred.

No Fatalities as Train Mishap Disrupts Abuja-Kaduna Route — “We Thought It Was a Collision” Passengers Speak on Train Mishap

She said the force of the impact caused passengers to fall over one another, making the situation even more frightening, especially for children and elderly travellers on board.

Beyond the physical impact, she also highlighted a communication gap, urging the NRC to keep passengers better informed during emergencies and provide safety briefings before journeys begin.

Meanwhile, an official of the corporation in Kaduna explained that early findings point to a technical fault involving a backup locomotive attached to the train.

The official clarified that the incident was not a collision between two trains but rather a situation where the rear locomotive struck the power car and the last coach due to a coupling issue.

He added that investigations are ongoing and assured passengers that steps are being taken to improve safety, including reviewing operational procedures and strengthening staff training.

For many passengers, however, the experience serves as a reminder that beyond expansion and usage of rail transport, safety must remain a top priority.