A morning trip from Abuja to Kaduna took a terrifying turn on Tuesday when a passenger train derailed near Asham, causing chaos among travelers aboard. The accident unfolded shortly after departure, around 11 a.m., along the busy railway connecting the two cities.
The derailment caused several carriages to overturn, leaving passengers scrambling desperately for safety amid confusion and fear. The exact reason behind the mishap remains unclear, but military forces were swiftly dispatched to the location to help manage the emergency and assist those stranded.
Sources close to the operation noted the prompt response by security teams, aiming to restore order and attend to the injured. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Railway Corporation has yet to release any official statement regarding the accident or ongoing rescue efforts.
A security official at the scene told reporters,
Our personnel arrived quickly to support the evacuation and provide aid. Everyone’s focus now is on ensuring passengers are safe and that the situation stabilizes
One passenger, who narrowly escaped injury, recalled,
It was terrifying. Suddenly, the train shook violently, and then we felt the carriages tipping over. People were shouting and pushing to get out. I’m just grateful to be alive
The railway authorities face pressure to enhance safety measures and prevent similar disasters, with investigations underway to determine the cause of the derailment. Officials have promised a thorough review of protocols and infrastructure along the corridor.
