NSIB launches investigation into train derailment at Jere Station
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated an investigation into a train derailment that occurred yesterday at Jere Station.
In a statement signed by Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NSIB, the agency said the incident involved passenger train KA2/loco 2702, which was traveling from Rigasa Station in Kaduna to Idu Station in Abuja.
The bureau explained that the train, which departed Rigasa at 8:00 AM with 685 passengers and crew on board, encountered issues at approximately 9:28 AM as it neared Jere Station.
But while navigating a switch point north of Jere Station, the baggage van (BVA) and one passenger coach derailed, dragging for about 86 feet before halting.
Further findings reveal that the train crew included two drivers, two train guards, three travelling ticket collectors (TTC), twenty police escorts, and four bomb disposal unit members. It comprised ten coaches, one baggage van, and two locomotives.
NSIB said no injuries were reported among passengers or crew members, adding that following the derailment, all passengers disembarked safely and continued their journey to Abuja using the rear locomotive and remaining coaches, arriving at 12:32 PM, slightly behind schedule.
According to the bureau the train was travelling at 90 km/h before reducing speed to 23 km/h as it approached Jere Station.
Despite this, the BVA and one coach derailed immediately after passing the northern change point at the station.
The NSIB said further investigation will scrutinise various factors such as the train’s speed, track conditions, mechanical components, and operational procedures.
The bureau will collaborate with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to analyse data from the On-Train Monitoring Recorder (OTMR) and other critical sources.
Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of NSIB, emphasised the importance of safety and the bureau’s commitment to a thorough investigation.
“Our priority is to determine the derailment’s root cause(s) and make safety recommendations to enhance the safety of railway operations in Nigeria and prevent reoccurrence,” he stated.
The NSIB has assured the public of a comprehensive and transparent investigation, adhering to international standards.
It noted that updates will be provided as the investigation progresses, and the public is urged to refrain from speculation until factual findings are presented.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau is a multimodal transport agency dedicated to promoting transport safety and conducting thorough investigations into transport accidents and incidents in Nigeria, with the goal of identifying probable causes and advocating for safety improvements.
