Stranded Train Passengers Trek Miles to Safety as it Breaks Down Inside Forest
In a terrifying ordeal, a train traveling from Agbor to Itakpe in Kogi State broke down in a remote forest, leaving passengers stranded and forced to trek for hours to safety.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, has raised concerns about the safety and reliability of Nigeria’s rail network.
According to a commuter who shared his experience on social media, the train developed technical issues in a densely forested area with no mobile network coverage, leaving passengers anxious and unsure of what to do.
The area, known for its presence of armed herders and cattle, is often referred to as an “evil forest.”
With no sign of rescue or repair, the passengers decided to take matters into their own hands and began trekking through the unfamiliar terrain in search of the nearest train station or town. The journey, which the commuter described as an “endurance trek,” lasted for over three hours and was fraught with uncertainty and danger.
However, in a surprising twist, the passengers encountered Fulani herders who were “remarkably friendly” and assisted them in navigating the forest. The herders, who are often stereotyped as being hostile, showed kindness and guided the stranded passengers, helping them to reach safety.
The commuter, who praised the herders for their kindness, also called on the Federal Government to take immediate action to address the issues plaguing the rail network.
“Airlines cancel flights without notice, roads are unsafe due to kidnappers and poor conditions, and now trains are breaking down in forests. May God continue to help us in this country,” he said.
The incident is a stark reminder of the security challenges facing Nigeria’s rail network. In March 2022, a passenger train traveling from Abuja to Kaduna was attacked by heavily armed terrorists, resulting in the deaths of at least eight people and the abduction of over 60 passengers. The attack, which was widely condemned, highlighted the vulnerability of the rail network and the need for improved security measures.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) suspended operations on the route indefinitely following the attack, and the federal government faced intense criticism for its handling of the incident. The kidnapping of passengers and the subsequent ransom payments and negotiations led to a decline in public confidence in rail travel as a safe alternative to Nigeria’s dangerous highways.
The latest incident has reignited calls for the government to prioritize the safety and maintenance of the rail network. With the country’s roads becoming increasingly unsafe due to kidnapping and poor conditions, the rail network is seen as a vital alternative for transportation.
However, the frequent breakdowns and security incidents are eroding public trust and undermining the potential of the rail network to drive economic growth and development.
As the government grapples with the challenges facing the rail network, it is essential to prioritize the safety and security of passengers. This includes investing in modern and reliable trains, improving security arrangements, and ensuring that passengers have access to emergency services in case of breakdowns or attacks.
The kindness shown by the Fulani herders to the stranded passengers is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there are still good people who are willing to help. However, it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that passengers are protected and safe while using the rail network. The government must take immediate action to address the issues plaguing the rail network and restore public confidence in this vital mode of transportation.
