NRC Flags Stone Attacks on Abuja–Kaduna Rail Service

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has sounded the alarm over a surge in stone-pelting incidents targeting trains on the Abuja–Kaduna corridor.

NRC spokesperson Callistus Unyimadu condemned the trend, citing a recent attack at Km 177 where vandals gathered along the tracks and pelted a moving train, shattering the locomotive’s windscreen.

Unyimadu revealed that this is not an isolated event; similar attacks have escalated over the past two weeks in areas such as Kakau District and Gidan Busa.

“This development is posing serious danger to railway operations, passengers and operational personnel.

“Management disclosed that similar incidents have so far been recorded in more than six locations along the corridor.

” This, thereby, worsens the already challenging and stressful operational conditions under which the corporation continues to provide essential transport services to Nigerians,” he said in a statement released on Sunday in Lagos obtained by Persecondnews.

Unyimadu noted that these persistent attacks not only endangered lives and damaged critical railway infrastructure but also constituted acts of economic sabotage capable of disrupting national transportation.

He pointed out that this undermined the huge investments of the Federal Government in the railway sector.

“Despite the unfortunate development, train operations have continued with necessary safety precautions and strict operational vigilance by railway personnel who have continued to demonstrate commitment and professionalism in ensuring that passengers reach their destinations safely.

“The management of the corporation specially acknowledges the efforts and support of security operatives working tirelessly with the NRC to secure railway corridors and safeguard passengers and railway assets despite the persistent attacks.

“The corporation is currently working closely with security agencies, community leaders, and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen surveillance along the corridor, identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice,” he stated.

To combat the rising vandalism, the NRC is appealing to the public to report criminal activity and protect railway property.

The corporation stressed that without immediate community support, these attacks could cripple train services.

Moving forward, the NRC maintained that passenger security is its top priority and is taking “every necessary measure” to ensure safe travel across the country.