NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, described reports that passengers were stranded as misleading, stressing that safety remained the corporation’s top priority. He explained that the train returned to Rigasa, Kaduna, within 30 minutes of departure to prevent potential risks on the route.
“The train could have continued, but for security concerns, it was safer to pull back,” Dr. Opeifa said. The journey resumed at 4:00 pm and reached Idu at 6:52 pm, 80 minutes behind schedule. Passengers were kept informed through public address systems on the train and at Rigasa Station.
Dr. Opeifa likened the situation to an aircraft diverting to the nearest airport after engine trouble. He noted that while a morning trip might have continued to a nearby station, the evening schedule prompted the precaution.
The NRC boss apologized for the inconvenience and urged media outlets to verify reports before publication to avoid misinformation. He reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to passenger safety and reliable service across all railway lines.
