NRC DECRIES VANDALISM OF RAILWAY FACILITIES, URGES STATES TO TAKE OWNERSHIP OF TRACKS
Read Time:2 Minute, 15 Second
By Aishat Momoh. O.
…Two Suspects Arrested for Removing 300 Bolts and Clips on Warri–Itakpe Rail Line
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has condemned the continued vandalism of railway infrastructure across the country and called on state governments to take greater ownership and responsibility for the protection of rail tracks within their jurisdictions.
The Managing Director of NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, made the call on Friday in Lagos during the parade of two suspects arrested by the Railway Police Command for allegedly removing fishplates along the Warri–Itakpe rail corridor.
Opeifa revealed that the suspects were linked to the theft of over 300 bolts and clips, critical components of the rail system. He noted that the NRC would intensify collaboration with host communities and the Delta State Government to curb vandalism along the route.
“The essence of today’s gathering is the profiling of the two suspects allegedly linked with the vandalism of train tracks,” Opeifa said. “We are going to renew our discussion with the Delta State Government and increase local involvement. We had earlier engaged two out of five communities in that area, but now we will expand that engagement.”
The NRC boss also disclosed that the corporation had shut down a train station in June due to persistent security concerns around the corridor.
He added that the agency was working with the Rural Electrification Agency to install solar-powered lighting systems stretching 500 meters around train stations to enhance safety and deter vandals.
“What worries us is people calling these assets scrap; they are not scrap they are critical national assets,” he stressed.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police, Railway Command Headquarters, Vungmoh Kwaimo, described railway vandalism as an act of economic sabotage, warning that offenders would face the full wrath of the law.
“Vandalism is not a bailable offence. Justice must be done, and there will be no room for pampering criminals,” Kwaimo stated. “We have extended investigations to those who buy these stolen items in Lagos and Agbor.”
He assured that a thorough investigation was underway and pledged that the case would be speedily prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others.
Meanwhile, the President General of the Nigerian Union of Railway Workers, Mr. Innocent Ajiji, commended the NRC management and the police for their efforts, emphasizing that vandalism of rail tracks was a long-standing challenge that jeopardizes train safety.
“The incessant accidents we’ve been having are caused by vandalism. When components holding the tracks are removed, trains are bound to derail,” Ajiji said.
He urged the public to appreciate the dedication of railway workers who, despite poor infrastructure and limited tools, continue to ensure that train services operate nationwide.
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