By Seun Ibiyemi
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has recorded another breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on railway vandalism with the arrest and prosecution of a suspected track vandal in Lagos.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the corporation, Kayode Opeifa, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday.
According to Opeifa, the 32-year-old suspect was apprehended on Thursday by security operatives from Multi Eye Security Services during a routine patrol at Mobolaji Johnson Train Station in Ebute-Metta.
He explained that the suspect was caught with 15 pandrol clips allegedly removed from the narrow gauge rail corridor at Alagomeji.
“These components are critical to track stability, and their removal poses serious safety risks, including potential derailment,” Opeifa said.
Following his arrest, the suspect was handed over to the Nigerian Railway Police Command for further investigation and prosecution.
He was subsequently arraigned before a court in Lagos and remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending the hearing of his case.
The matter has been adjourned to April 24.
Reaffirming the corporation’s zero tolerance for vandalism, Opeifa described such acts as economic sabotage that endangers lives and critical infrastructure.
He commended the security personnel for their vigilance and swift response.
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“Anyone found culpable in vandalising railway infrastructure or dealing in stolen materials will face the full weight of the law,” he warned.
The NRC also called on members of the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities around railway corridors, while assuring passengers and stakeholders of its continued commitment to safe, secure, and efficient rail services nationwide.
