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The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has expressed grave concern over the rising cases of vandalism targeting its electrical and signalling installations across key rail corridors — including Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna, and Warri–Itakpe.
In a statement released on Saturday, October 11, and signed by the Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, the Corporation described the trend as a “major threat” to safe and efficient train operations.
According to the NRC, two suspects — Ibrahim Abdullahi (22) of Hayi, Rigasa, and Sani Ibrahim (24) of Layi Turaki, Rigasa — were arrested by operatives of the Nigeria Police Railway Command attached to the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS).
The suspects were apprehended after a patrol team, acting on intelligence, discovered that a cable wire had been cut and removed from one of the cranes stationed at the Rigasa facility.
“During interrogation, the duo confessed to committing the crime and disclosed that they sold the stolen cable to one Musa, popularly known as ‘Musa Major,’ for ₦90,000,” the statement read. “Each suspect received ₦30,000, while another member of their gang, Abdulwahab Yakubu, remains at large.”
The NRC commended the Railway Command for its swift action, assuring that all perpetrators of vandalism would face the full weight of the law.
Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, described the attacks as acts of economic sabotage against Critical National Assets.
“Going forward, vandalism of railway installations will be treated as economic sabotage, with severe legal consequences,” Opeifa warned.
He appealed to host communities to collaborate with the Corporation and security agencies in protecting railway infrastructure, noting that a secure rail system fosters community development and economic growth.
Efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining suspects and recover the stolen materials.
