2nd April, 2022
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed the safety of about 170 passengers that were onboard the attacked AK9 Abuja to Kaduna train on March 28.
Mr. Fidet Okhiria, the NRCs Managing Director, gave the confirmation on Saturday.
He confirmed that a total of 362 passengers boarded the ill-fated train.
He said 170 were safe, and 21 were missing, but he was silent on the fate of the remaining 171.
Okhiria, however, noted that there is an ongoing collaboration with relevant authorities to ensure the safety of the other passengers.
He said: ”The Corporation, in continuation of its concerted effort through repeated calls, has been able to confirm the safety of 170 passengers, while 21 passengers are reported missing by the relatives who made calls to us.
”The corporation is seriously collaborating with the security agencies who had already swung into action, in line with the directive of Mr. President to do everything possible to rescue all those that are still missing.”
Okhiria stated that the corporation had also heavily moved human and material resources to the accident site to ensure the resumption of train services without further delays.
He said the move was to reduce the stress currently faced by its passengers in getting to their destinations.
He said:’ ‘In practical terms, a high-powered restoration team, led by Directors have been working round the clock to re-rail the coaches affected by the bomb blast.
”There is a coordinated two-pronged simultaneous restoration approach. While Loco 2702 with re-railing and restoration materials departed Idu Station, Abuja, to the bomb blast site.
”Another team with Loco 2502 departed Rigasa Station, Kaduna, with re-railing and restoration materials to the same site.
”I am happy to inform you that as at the close of work on the 1st of April 2022, Coaches SP00004, SP00009, SP00012, SP00013 have all been re-railed and safely taken to our Rigasa Station in Kaduna.
”Restoration of track for the full resumption of normal train services will continue today, 2nd April 2022.”
On safety, the NRC boss said arrangements had been put in place for increased security along the track and onboard the train to prevent the recurrence of the unfortunate incident.
He consoled families of victims of the attack, saying ”be assured that the corporation is with you in this challenging time”.