Lagos Train accident: NRC explains cause of accident

…..Sanwo-Olu commiserates with families of victims

…….FG orders probe

The Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) has explained the cause of Thursday’s accident that involved a train and a Lagos government staff bus at the Shogunle area of Ikeja. 

The train rammed into the bus said to be conveying staff of Lagos state government while the bus was attempting to cross the rail track. 

Managing Director of the NRC, Fidet Okhiria, blamed carelessness on the part of the bus driver for the accident involving a train and a bus. The bus had attempted to quickly cross despite warnings.

The NRC managing director urged Lagos drivers to be careful when driving through the level crossing.

According to reports, three persons were confirmed dead while many sustained varying degrees of injury I’m the accident.

Meanwhile, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed sadness over the incident.

In a tweet on Thursday, Sanwo-Olu thanked “well-meaning Lagosians” who immediately joined in rescue efforts and extended his condolences to the families of the victims.

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“I am deeply saddened by the news of the train/bus accident. The vehicle was conveying staff of the Lagos state government, our staff who serve the state in different capacities. Let’s say a prayer for the families and a prayer of mercy and protection for our state,” the tweet reads

“My thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time. A big thank you to well-meaning Lagosians who immediately joined in rescue efforts. Our first responders and emergency services are on ground and we will share more information shortly.”

On his part, the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika has directed the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to commence Immediate investigation into a collision.

Describing the accident as unfortunate, Sirika assured the public of the capacity of the NSIB to unravel the immediate and remote causes of the accident and proffer ways of preventing such in the future.

The minister in a statement by his Special Assistant on Public Affairs, Dr. James Odaudu solicited the  cooperation of members of the public as investigation by the NSIB team commences.