The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has expressed alarm over the rising wave of vandalism targeting its electrical and signalling installations across the country.
The agency warned that the trend poses a serious threat to the safety and reliability of train services nationwide.
According to the NRC, two young men were recently arrested in Kaduna for vandalising its equipment near the Rigasa Train Station.
The suspects, identified as Ibrahim Abdullahi, 22, of Hayi, Rigasa, and Sani Ibrahim, 24, of Layi Turaki, Rigasa, were apprehended by operatives of the Nigeria Police, Railway Command attached to the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service.
Cable Theft and Swift Arrests
The arrests followed a report on Friday, 10 October 2025, around 12:30 p.m., that a cable wire had been cut and removed from one of NRC’s cranes at the Rigasa facility.
Acting on intelligence, a patrol team led by ASP Abdullahi Bwajin swiftly traced and arrested the suspects.
Chief Public Relations Officer of the NRC, Callistus Unyimadu, confirmed the incident on behalf of the management.
During interrogation, the suspects confessed to selling the stolen cable to one Musa, popularly called “Musa Major,” for ₦90,000. Each received ₦30,000 as his share, while another accomplice, Abdulwahab Yakubu of Rigasa, is currently on the run.
Police sources say efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining suspect and recover the stolen materials.
The NRC commended the Railway Police Command for its professionalism and swift response, promising that all culprits would face the full weight of the law.
Railway Assets Under Threat
NRC’s Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, described the constant attacks on railway facilities as an assault on Critical National Assets. He warned that such acts would henceforth be treated as economic sabotage, carrying severe legal consequences.
Dr. Opeifa urged residents, especially those in communities hosting railway infrastructure, to support the corporation and security agencies in protecting the assets.
“The railway system has always been a catalyst for development and improved livelihoods. Safeguarding it is our collective duty,” he said.
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