Suspected railway vandal arrested in Lagos

Monday, March 30, 2026 - The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has arrested a suspected railway vandal in Lagos as part of efforts to tackle the growing cases of damage to rail infrastructure.

According to a statement by the Corporation, the suspect, Bashiru Hafeez, 32, was apprehended on Thursday, March 26, 2026, by security personnel from Multi Eye Security Services at the Mobolaji Johnson Train Station (MJS), Ebute-Metta, during a routine patrol.

He was found with fifteen pandrol clips which are iron fasteners used to secure rail tracks, believed to have been removed from the narrow gauge corridor at Alagomeji within the Lagos rail network.

“These components are critical to track stability, and their removal poses serious safety risks, including the potential for derailment,” the statement said.

Officials explained that removing such parts could endanger train operations and put passengers at risk.

After his arrest, the suspect was handed over to the Nigerian Railway Police Command for investigation.

He was later arraigned before a court in Lagos and remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending further hearing. The case has been adjourned to April 24, 2026.

Reacting to the development, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NRC, Dr Kayode Opeifa, reaffirmed the Corporation’s zero tolerance for vandalism.

He commended the security personnel for their alertness and quick response, adding that the Corporation would continue to work with security agencies to identify and prosecute those involved in vandalising railway assets.

“Anyone found culpable in vandalizing railway infrastructure or dealing in stolen railway materials will face the full weight of the law,” he noted.

He also warned against tampering with railway facilities, describing such acts as a threat to public safety.

The Corporation called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities around railway corridors, stressing that the railway system is a critical national asset that must be protected.

NRC further assured passengers and stakeholders of its commitment to safe, secure and efficient rail services across the country.