FG addressing incidents of rail derailment – Alkali

The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that it is addressing incidents of rail derailment in the country, through proactive measures.

The Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Alkali gave the assurance in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen on Sunday in Abuja.

“The recent incidents involving our trains are currently being addressed through proactive measures.

“A significant number of such incidents were the direct result of incidents of vandalism and criminality along the rail tracks by deviants who do not wish our country well.

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“ I wish to also direct that all stakeholders in safe and secure operations in the railway industry should immediately put their best foot forward for continuous service to our people and our dear motherland, “ Alkali said.

Speaking on the July 4 rail derailment between Itakpe in Kogi and Warri in Delta, the Minister said he has directed investigations into the incident, as well as safety and welfare of all passengers on board.

“My attention has been drawn to the reports of derailment of some coaches of a scheduled train service operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) between Itakpe, Kogi State and Warri in Delta State, which happened on July 4.

“Upon receipt of news of this unfortunate incident and enquiries made, my observation is that the unfortunate incident did not result in any fatalities.

“The incident occurred at Ujewhu near Abraka in Delta State at about 7.15pm on Thursday night.

“ I have directed the NRC, as the operator, to immediately ensure the safety and welfare of all passengers on board the train, “ he said.

Alkali assured that NRC would evacuate the distressed coaches from the tracks in order to guarantee resumption of services as soon as possible and produce a comprehensive report of the incident for his consideration.

According to him, NRC had commenced steps in the above direction and all indications point to the fact that normalcy was gradually being restored on the service.

The minister sympathised with all persons who were on board the train at the time of the incident and further assured the general public, particularly those patronising the train services of their safety and welfare.