NRC Decries Rising Vandalism of Railway Facilities

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has expressed concern over the increasing cases of vandalism of its railway facilities across the country, describing the acts as a major threat to the safety and efficiency of train operations.

In a statement released on Friday, the Managing Director of NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, revealed that the incidents have been recorded along major routes, including the Abuja–Kaduna, Lagos–Ibadan, and Warri–Itakpe rail lines.

Opeifa said two suspects, aged 22 and 24, were recently arrested at Rigasa Station in Kaduna for allegedly stealing cables from a crane. The suspects reportedly confessed to selling the items to a buyer identified as “Musa Major.”

Similarly, vandals were said to have destroyed signal cables and removed machine parts between Agege and Agbado stations on the Lagos–Ibadan standard gauge line. The damage was discovered during a routine inspection by NRC officials.

Describing the attacks as acts of economic sabotage, the NRC boss warned that such activities endanger passenger safety and undermine government’s investment in the rail sector.

“The vandalism of railway assets is not just theft; it is sabotage against national development. We are working with security agencies to ensure offenders are arrested and prosecuted,” Opeifa said.

He urged residents of communities along the rail corridors to report suspicious activities, adding that the corporation would intensify collaboration with security agencies and local vigilante groups to curb the menace.

The NRC commended community efforts in Agbarho, Delta State, where local vigilance helped prevent further damage to the Warri–Itakpe rail line.

Oshuniran Sheriff Ola