Former presidential candidate of the Labor Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the recent Abuja–Kaduna train derailment, urging the government to strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s transport infrastructure.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, involved a train carrying 583 passengers and 15 crew members, according to the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC). The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed that six passengers sustained injuries, though no fatalities were recorded.
In a statement posted on his official X (Twitter) handle, Mr. Obi sympathized with the injured and their families, describing rail transport as a “critical component of national development.” He emphasized the need for sustained investment in rail infrastructure to guarantee passenger safety and efficient service delivery.
“I am deeply saddened by the Abuja–Kaduna train derailment. My heartfelt prayers are with the injured and all those affected,” Obi wrote. “The rail transport system is essential to our growth as a nation, and we must continue to embrace and invest in it.”
He further urged the authorities to:
- Provide adequate medical care for the injured.
- Conduct a thorough investigation to ensure accountability.
- Restore public trust in Nigeria’s transport system.
Mr. Obi stressed that restoring safety and efficiency in rail transport is vital to economic growth and public confidence in national infrastructure.
