Mohammed I. Yaba | Thu, 1 May 2025
A throwback to a time of great trauma for the railway, barely 3 years ago, the fall out of which some of us are still dealing with to this day.
While it is understandable that this survivor says he has forgiven his so called repentant assailant, that would however be his personal business. As a purported law-abiding citizen, he is obliged to report his sighting of the kidnapper for arrest and possible prosecution. The offence was not just against the victims alone but against society as a whole. People died and many are still suffering from the event. The prerogative of mercy rightfully belongs to the president and perhaps the governor of Kaduna and not the victims alone. If we are going to put a stop to this and other such crimes, then we must help the law to take its course.
The installation of the acoustic sensing security surveillance system on the Abuja-Kaduna railway among others appears to remain outstanding. This again reflects how seriously the FMT and NRC are taking this matter.
We certainly do not pray for another such incident but questions must be asked as to what pro active measures the NRC, is taking to protect life and limb of railway stakeholders beyond writing ineffectual memos that may be ignored or marked “kiv” presumably because the funds for such priorities are not available. Though it would appear that the then minister could afford to charter private jets for what would seem to have been lower order priority frivolities.
Also, to pay tribute to my pals late Amb. Ahmed Magaji aka Masses (aka Prof. Unaneva C Enitin) and Prof. Usman Yusuf whom were members of the CDS’ 6 member committee that was instrumental in the negotiations for the release of hostages.
Our reality is that the safety of users is seriously impacted by the incapacities of the NRC particularly in the area of railway operations. The earlier we unbundle it and do it right, the healthier and happier our railway shall be