House of Representatives Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum to Transport Minister Over Kaduna Train Derailment

The House of Representatives Committee on Land Transport has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali, to appear before it following his absence at a scheduled investigative hearing into the recent Abuja-Kaduna train derailment.

The incident, which involved 618 passengers, has raised serious concerns about railway safety and accountability. Chairperson of the committee, Hon. Blessing Onuh, strongly criticized the Minister’s non-appearance, emphasizing the urgency and importance of the matter.

“We cannot take this lightly. Over 600 lives were put at risk. This is a national emergency,” Onuh stated during Tuesday’s session, which was suspended pending the Minister’s compliance.

Lawmakers, including Deputy Spokesman Hon. Philip Agbese and Hon. Cyril Hart, expressed dismay at the Minister’s disregard for parliamentary summons, describing it as a sign of incompetence and disrespect for public safety.

The committee warned that failure to appear within the stipulated period would result in escalation of the matter to the President. The session has been adjourned until the Minister presents himself for questioning.