The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has arrested two suspected vandals linked to recent destruction of its electrical and signalling installations nationwide. The suspects, Ibrahim Abdullahi, 22, and Sani Ibrahim, 24, were apprehended by the Nigeria Police Railway Command in Kaduna. They are accused of vandalising equipment at the Rigasa Train Station, specifically cutting and removing a cable from one of NRC’s cranes.
According to a statement by NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, the suspects confessed to the crime and said they sold the stolen cable to a buyer known as “Musa Major” for ₦90,000. Each received ₦30,000, while another syndicate member, Abdulwahab Yakubu, remains at large.
The NRC expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of vandalism, describing them as a major threat to safe and efficient train operations. Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer Dr. Kayode Opeifa warned that the corporation, in collaboration with security agencies, will treat such offences as economic sabotage and pursue severe legal consequences for the perpetrators.
The corporation appealed to the public, especially residents of communities hosting railway facilities, to support NRC and security agencies in protecting these critical national assets. The railway system plays a vital role in community development and improved livelihoods, and safeguarding it is a collective responsibility.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspect and recover the stolen materials. The NRC commended the Nigeria Police Railway Command for its professionalism and swift action. As the investigation continues, the NRC reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of train operations and to holding vandals accountable. The increasing vandalism of railway electrical and signalling installations poses a significant threat to the country’s transportation infrastructure, underscoring the need for collaboration between the corporation, security agencies, and the public to protect these essential assets.
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