FG hints on resumption of Abuja-Kaduna train service as 5 more abductees released; Lagos-Kano, Ajaokuta train services suspended
The Minister of Transportation, Muazu Sambo has hinted that train services along the Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor will resume when victims kidnapped from the AK-9 train are reunited with their families.
In addition according to Sambo, the service would commence when the digital security systems that will monitor activities around the tracks are procured and installed.
The Minister explained that resuming operations without rescuing those kidnapped will make Nigerians judge the administration as insensitive.
Meanwhile, five of the hostages kidnapped on March 28th, aboard an Abuja-Kaduna train have been freed by terrorists.
The security agencies and the Federal Government are yet to confirm the development, but a member of the negotiating team, Tukur Mamu confirmed that the victims were released today, Wednesday.
Mamu who said that he played a prominent role in the release of the train victims, disclosed he has backed out due to threats to his life, personal integrity, and lack of support from the Federal Government.
Also, the Nigeria Railway Corporation has suspended the Lagos-Kano and Ajaokuta train services due to fear of terrorist attacks.
A source in the Ministry of Transportation and the NRC said that the train services would not resume until the security along the Lagos-Kano route and the Ajaokuta train station was guaranteed.
It was also learnt that the NRC suspended services at the Ajaokuta station along Warri-Itakpe route because of the attack on some passengers by gunmen on Monday.
It was gathered that the Lagos-Kano train services were suspended because of the high level of insecurity in Niger and Kaduna states, which are the routes of the train heading to Kano from Lagos.
The NRC Managing Director, Fidet Okhiria, confirmed the suspension of the train services at the Ajaokuta station and the Lagos-Kano route to newsmen on Tuesday.
