The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced a 72-hour suspension of operations along the Warri-Itakpe rail corridor following a major engine failure that left passengers stranded in a remote and dangerous forest in Kogi State on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
The shutdown comes after commuters were forced to trek through dense bushland, described by one passenger as an “evil forest,” to find safety when the train broke down far from any mobile network coverage or security presence.
The forested terrain is known for being frequented by armed herders and had long been a source of anxiety for travellers.
In a press statement issued on Thursday and signed by Henrietta Eregare on behalf of the NRC management, the Corporation confirmed the incident and admitted to multiple technical failures, including the breakdown of the main train engine and a failed emergency recovery effort.
“The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) wishes to inform the general public and our valued passengers that a significant disruption occurred on the Warri-Itakpe rail line on Tuesday, April 9, 2025, due to multiple technical issues involving a train engine failure. Management has consequently suspended train services on the route for 72 hours,” the statement read.
The NRC revealed that the disruption began around 1:38 PM, affecting both the 8:00 AM departure from Warri and the 2:00 PM service from Itakpe.
Emergency recovery protocols, according to the agency, were immediately activated but also failed due to another engine malfunction.
“Following the incident, NRC swiftly arranged for the safe evacuation of all passengers via road transport with adequate security presence. Passengers were guided off the affected train to waiting cars approximately 500 meters from the track. Some passengers chose to arrange their own transportation before the arrival of official recovery vehicles—a decision NRC understands given the delay,” the statement added.
Despite the Corporation’s assurance, one of the affected passengers, activist Kola Edokpayi, shared a disturbing account of how the breakdown plunged them into panic as they were surrounded by thick forest with no cell service and no help in sight.
“We became apprehensive,” Edokpayi said in a video sent from the scene. “We were stranded in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by forest and with no idea how long the repair would take. So, we decided to start trekking.”
He described the ordeal as an “endurance trek” that lasted over three hours as passengers attempted to locate the nearest town or functioning station. Edokpayi also recounted an unexpected encounter with Fulani herders during the journey through the forest.
“The Fulani herders we met were very helpful. Contrary to the fear many of us had, they guided us and showed kindness throughout the walk,” he said.
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