Reps Summon Transport Minister Over Train Derailment, Rail Safety Concerns
Admin, 11th September, 2025
The House of Representatives has summoned the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, to appear before its Committee on Land Transport within 48 hours, amid rising concerns over the safety of Nigeria’s rail infrastructure following a recent train derailment along the Abuja–Kaduna corridor.
The summons follows the Minister’s absence at an emergency session convened Tuesday by the Committee in Abuja to address the August 26 derailment of a Kaduna-bound train at Asham Station. The incident left several passengers injured, caused significant damage to railway infrastructure, and led to the indefinite suspension of services along the critical Abuja–Kaduna route.
Chaired by Rep. Blessing Onyeche Onuh (APC, Benue), the Committee meeting had been called to deliberate on pressing safety issues, assess the status of ongoing rail projects, and demand accountability from key players in the sector. However, lawmakers expressed outrage at Senator Alkali’s failure to appear, having only verbally delegated a representative—a move that violated the House’s Standing Orders.
Also absent was the Managing Director of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), a major stakeholder in Nigeria’s rail development. While the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, was present at the session, members noted that both the Transportation Minister and CCECC MD held critical responsibility for addressing the crisis and offering assurances to the public.
Members of the Committee did not mince words in condemning the no-shows, calling the absences “unacceptable” and warning that no official assignment should override the obligation to ensure the safety of Nigerians. They emphasised that the public expects transparency and accountability in the face of recent failures within the railway system.
Rejecting the Minister’s attempt at delegating attendance, the Committee adjourned proceedings for 48 hours and resolved to issue a formal summons compelling both Senator Alkali and the CCECC Managing Director to appear in person. Lawmakers also reaffirmed their commitment to a comprehensive inquiry into safety lapses, operational challenges, and contractual transparency within the rail sector.
In a statement issued by Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., Spokesman of the House, the 10th House of Representatives reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens’ lives in line with its Legislative Agenda on Social Sector Reform and Development (Agenda 5). The House vowed to continue its constitutional oversight functions to ensure that public infrastructure serves the safety and welfare of all Nigerians.
