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NRC Ignored Warnings On Planned Attack On Abuja-Kaduna Train

Published

4 years ago

April 4, 2022

Fresh facts in the aftermath of last Monday’s fatal attack on the Abuja-Kaduna train service have shed more light on the failure of officials at different levels to forestall the planned onslaught, which was seen coming months ahead.

Official correspondences and security reports seen by our reporter reveal how the plot was uncovered following intelligence intercepts leading to the issuance of alerts to different responsible agencies.

Senior security officials are blaming officials of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) for refusing to abide by the advice to restrict train movements to daytime hours.

The latest details corroborate the Daily Trust exclusive story published last Thursday, which indicated that the bombing of the passenger train came after repeated warnings by the intelligence service about the movement of bandits with a mission to attack the train service and other facilities.

The attack on the train, which had on board over 300 passengers was the most devastating coming after at least three previous less successful attempts on the service.

At least nine corpses were recovered from the scene of the attack on Tuesday while some 26 others sustained injuries. A yet-to-be-determined number of passengers were also abducted by the kidnappers.

Two strands of the security warnings focus on directives for military formations in the area to respond to the threat and for the NRC to suspend night trips along the route. The Nigeria Police, which is in charge of internal security has a command responsible for the railways and usually deploys armed policemen on the train to ensure security.

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But like many states bedeviled by ongoing security challenges, Kaduna State has detachments from the military under different tags taking over security duties in the state.

However, documents seen by Daily Trust and information from informed sources show that three different advisories and a similar warning at least two meetings for the suspension of the evening train shuttle were not heeded by the railway management.

Also, military formations in the area failed to take action to scuttle the impending attack.

Military high commands had issued a clear directive for troops to clear criminals’ hideouts and other enclaves that could be used ahead of the attack.

Long in coming

In the aftermath of a near-fatal attack on the Abuja-Kaduna train on October 20, last year, which led to the derailing of the train and suspension of the service, the security situation was appraised leading to the issuance of an advisory for the NRC to suspend the evening shuttle.

In a letter dated November 2, 2022, addressed to the manager of the Rigasa Station of the Nigerian Railway, the Kaduna State government drew attention to a “Thorough review of train operations” conducted.

“Following this review and an assessment of the general security situation, the Kaduna State government hereby advises that trains operate during the daytime only. All arrivals after dark, to Kaduna or Abuja, should be avoided completely,” the letter reads in part.

The government advisory further emphasised the “Urgent rescheduling of train services and the cancellation of all train services, which arrive at their destinations later than 6pm”.

The idea, according to a senior security officer, was to deny the criminals the opportunity of hiding under the cover of the night to plant explosive devices or deploy their men.

With the train shuttles continued in spite of the security advisory, the state government wrote another letter to the railway reminding the management of the threat to the evening service.

“Current developments indicate that the concerns over threats to train services, which prompted this advisory continue to exist,” the follow up letter signed by Kaduna’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan states. The second letter was dated January 27, 2022.

Daily Trust gathered that just before the second letter on the request to suspend the evening train shuttle, there was an intelligence report from the Defence Headquarters, which succinctly points to a plan to launch simultaneous attacks on the train service and other critical facilities.

The military signal revealed that bandits had conducted an “Assessment mission on the Abuja-Kaduna railway corridor with a view to launching attacks on trains” and the railway infrastructure.

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The intelligence indicated that the bandits were “Mobilising members and finalising plans for the attacks”.

Following the intelligence from the Defence Headquarters and a meeting of the Kaduna State Security Council, Daily Trust learnt that a meeting was convoked at the headquarters of the Army’s 1 Division in Kaduna with all stakeholders to review the situation.

The meeting held on February 9, agreed to suspend the 6pm train service pending improvement of the situation.

“I remember the commissioner of security was even threatening to address the press after the meeting to tell the world the recommendation of the services since the railway authorities were unwilling to comply with all the advisories. Some of us advised against that to avoid causing panic,” a source who was part of the meeting said in confidence.

Twenty five days before the attack, an intelligence report dated March 3, 2022, titled “Plans to Simultaneously Attack Rigasa Train Station, Other Critical Infrastructure and Security Forces” also drew attention to the impending attack.

“Intercepts and human intelligence sources around Kaduna-Niger interstate boundaries, have confirmed plans by terrorists to attack the Rigasa Train Station, and other critical infrastructure, simultaneously,” it reads in part.

“The intelligence also revealed plans to attack security force units, especially on the Kaduna-Abuja Road general area, imminently.

“The security forces targeted for attack are mainly troops deployed at Rijana in Kachia LGA and personnel carrying out aggressive fighting patrols on the Kaduna-Abuja highway, spanning Chikun, Kachia and Kagarko LGAs of Kaduna State.”

The report recommended that “The management of the Rigasa Train Station should be persuaded by the Kaduna State government to suspend operations, which extend into night time and promptly upgrade the immediate security structure of the terminal”.

Ignored intelligence

Findings by Daily Trust indicate that those who were in positions to act did not take the warnings seriously as the railway service refused to act on the multiple warnings.

It was also unlikely, sources say, if the directive from the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Leo Irabor, for sweeping operations to counter the planned attack was duly complied with.

In the January signal from the Defence Headquarters, the CDS directed the leadership of Operation Thunder Strike (OPTS) and Operation Whirl Punch (OPWP) to “Urgently emplace measures to thwart the planned attacks along the railway corridors”. The two commands are active military operations operating between Kaduna and Niger States.

Specifically, the military high commands directed the two theatre commands to “Piquet vulnerable points along the railway corridor as well as identify and destroy all suspected bandits’ bases along the axis”.

In the March 3 intelligence briefing, it was reported that “Virtually all the villages at the far end of Rigasa Train Station – covering about 40 to 50 kilometers radius – and other villages around Buruku general area in Chikun LGA have been deserted.

“It is the same situation in Kabrasha general area of Chikun LGA (linking with Kusaso areas of Niger State) and in Kabula Hills of Mangoro area, which shares contiguous boundaries with Kachia LGA of Kaduna State.”

This situation, according to senior security sources, made the general area under the “full control” of the bandits and also presented an opportunity for a more vigorous military operation.

While there are doubts in some quarters if the security forces had taken adequate steps to thwart the attack, as directed, a security source in Kaduna said clearance operations had always been carried out saying the bandits who carried out the train attack moved there for the purpose. He said the spot where the attack happened was also, specially selected as it would be hard to reach for any rescue mission.

Also, a senior military officer had told Daily Trust that security agents had been on alert following reports from intercepted communication pointing to the possible attack but added that it was impossible to deploy troops permanently without specific knowledge of when the attackers will deploy. “They will get tired and demoralized,” he said.

“The early arrival of the troops on that day was because there was some level of alertness in view of the information at hand. It could have been worse”.

He said the many areas in Kaduna, especially around Rijana and Kasarami are infested with regrouping Boko Haram elements, accusing residents of not providing helpful information to aid the work of security agents.

Speaking to Daily Trust last week, the Managing Director of the NRC, Engr. Fidet Okhiria, admitted that the NRC was written to stop the evening train, denying receiving any latest warning.

“They wrote to us that they suspected that they wanted to attack the train but that was in December/January. But we looked at it and said if there is something like that, they should find a solution to it and stopping the train is not the solution.

“And we don’t run night train. The last train leaves in the evening. We believe if we stop the running of trains, it means the terrorists have won.”

Poor response to intelligence worrisome – Expert

A security and intelligence expert, Umar Yakubu, bemoaned poor response to intelligence, describing it as worrisome an inimical to success in the fight against insecurity.

Yakubu, who heads a think tank, Counter Fraud Center, said “no war can be won without credible intelligence. The intelligence agencies seem to be gathering a lot of actionable intelligence but the issue of poor response is worrisome.”

“Strategic units need to be well positioned to effectively act on credible intelligence. The governor (of Kaduna state) and Daily Trust had reported that information was relayed to concerned authorities about the attack but somehow, maybe due to bureaucracy, action was not taken. The Joint Intelligence Board needs to create a more efficient layer where tactical operations can be swiftly executed without delay.”

Yakubu advised on deployment of technology to more effectively secure the rail line.

“The Kaduna – Abuja route is about 200 kilometres. There are so many ungoverned spaces that law enforcement would find difficult to reach. Luckily, most of the terrorists move within the bush using motorcycles. The most efficient way is to utilise unmanned aerial vehicles to easily spot them and neutralise any threat. It is cheaper, more efficient and effective and also minimises collateral damage.

“The same technology is need across all hot spots. We should not be endangering the lives of troops by making them patrol dangerous areas when you can get intelligence in a more efficient manner.”

DAILY TRUST

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Abia Assembly Passes Law to Protect Tenants From Exploitative Landlords, Agents

Published

7 hours ago

August 5, 2026

Trends Admin

Abia Assembly Passes Law to Protect Tenants From Exploitative Landlords, Agents

The Abia State House of Assembly has passed the Abia Property and Tenancy Bill into law, introducing far-reaching reforms aimed at regulating property transactions, protecting landlords and tenants, and sanitising the activities of property agents across the state. The bill was passed during Tuesday’s plenary after consideration by the Committee of the Whole. The law provides for the establishment of the Abia State Property and Tenancy Regulatory Authority, which will oversee the implementation of the new law once it receives the assent of Governor Alex Otti. Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, announced the passage of the bill during plenary, stating that the law would take effect upon receiving the governor’s assent. He congratulated members of the House on the successful passage of the legislation, expressing confidence that it would strengthen the state’s property administration framework and promote transparency, accountability, and fairness in landlord-tenant relationships. The Property and Tenancy Bill was jointly sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Augustine Okezie, and Hon. Mandela Obasi, representing Ohafia North State Constituency, as part of the Assembly’s efforts to provide a legal framework that protects the interests of landlords, tenants, and genuine property agents while promoting order and professionalism within the real estate sector. It is one of four major bills passed by the Assembly in a single plenary session, alongside the Abia State Criminal Law Bill, the Abia State Administration of Criminal Justice Bill, and the Abia State Restorative Justice Bill. The law became necessary following widespread outcry from tenants in Umuahia and Aba over high house rents for residential and commercial buildings. Residents of the two major cities accused house agents of conspiring with landlords to arbitrarily jack up rents. According to lawmakers, over 90% of Abians are tenants, with many living under the global poverty level, making housing a major challenge.

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The new law establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for Abia’s housing sector, introducing several protections for tenants and agents, as well as landlords. A key provision of the legislation makes it mandatory for all property agents operating in Abia State to be registered with the regulatory authority. Collecting rent from multiple tenants for the same property has been made a criminal offence punishable by law. Anyone found operating as a property agent without a valid licence will be liable to a fine ranging from N1 million to N10 million. The law fixes the maximum agent’s fee at 5% of the annual rent, curbing the excessive charges that have long burdened tenants in the state. Any licensed or unlicensed agent who defrauds a client, whether a prospective tenant or a landlord, will, upon conviction, face between six and seven years’ imprisonment. Landlords are prohibited from demanding, and tenants from paying, rent exceeding six months in advance. Violations attract fines or potential jail time. The bill also seeks to control unreasonable rent increases, a pressing challenge where landlords have historically raised rents at arbitrary rates. Tenants can now challenge such increases in court and cannot be evicted while the case is pending. The law streamlines the process of property recovery for landlords dealing with non-compliant or defaulting tenants, providing faster eviction procedures. Tenants must present proof of rent and utility bills payment when filing or appealing tenancy-related cases, ensuring transparency in dispute resolution. It shall be the duty of the party who engages the services of a professional in respect of the tenancy agreement to pay the fees for such professional services.

The bill provides for the inauguration of a governing board immediately after the governor assents to the law. The board will be responsible for regulating the activities of property agents, ensuring compliance with the law, enforcing professional standards, and addressing issues relating to property transactions in the state. Professional fees will be paid by the party who engages the services of a professional in respect of the tenancy agreement.

The legislation followed years of complaints from residents about exploitative practices in the housing sector. Lawmakers noted that the existing laws created a “lacuna for abuse of tenancy agreements and unreasonable increment of rents” which put many into undue suffering. Hon. Barr. Anderson Akaliro, representing Umuahia North State Constituency, described the bill as “a necessary step toward protecting both landlords and tenants,” adding that effective legal safeguards are essential for promoting harmony within communities. The bill has received broad support from lawmakers across the state, including Chief Whip Hon. Emeka Tommy Obioma. Many residents who have long faced arbitrary rent hikes and exploitative agent fees have welcomed the development as a major relief, while property owners have expressed appreciation for the streamlined processes for property recovery.

The law will become effective immediately upon receiving the Governor’s assent. Once operational, the Abia State Property and Tenancy Regulatory Authority will be established to oversee property transactions, monitor the activities of property agents, and safeguard the interests of both landlords and tenants across the state. The passage of the bill is expected to address longstanding concerns over arbitrary agency charges, unregistered property agents, and disputes arising from tenancy agreements, while creating a more transparent and regulated property market in Abia State. Stakeholders in the housing sector have welcomed the development, expressing optimism that the reform will reduce conflicts and foster mutual understanding between landlords and tenants. As Governor Otti’s assent is awaited, residents and stakeholders in the housing sector are hopeful that the new law will usher in a new era of fairness and accountability in Abia State’s property market. The Assembly’s commitment to passing this legislation reflects a broader recognition that housing is a fundamental right and that both tenants and landlords deserve a legal framework that protects their interests and promotes harmonious coexistence.

Abia Assembly Passes Law to Protect Tenants From Exploitative Landlords, Agents

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Boat Operators Rescue Woman Who Jumped Into Lagos Lagoon From Carter Bridge

Published

7 hours ago

August 5, 2026

Trends Admin

Boat Operators Rescue Woman Who Jumped Into Lagos Lagoon From Carter Bridge

Panic broke out around the Idumota-Carter Bridge in Lagos on Tuesday after a woman was rescued from the Lagos Lagoon, in what witnesses described as an apparent suicide attempt. The incident drew the attention of commuters, pedestrians, and local boat operators, who responded swiftly to bring her to safety. Eyewitnesses said the woman plunged into the lagoon on Tuesday afternoon before nearby boat operators quickly moved towards her and successfully pulled her out of the water alive. A video of the incident, shared on X by user CHUKS (@ChuksEricE), showed the woman seated inside a wooden canoe moments after she was brought out of the water. She appeared visibly shaken and disoriented as one of the fishermen paddled the canoe away from the bridge. The footage captured bystanders gathered on the bridge, with many expressing concern about the woman’s condition and speculating about what may have driven her to jump into the lagoon. A woman speaking in Yoruba was heard asking, “What were you thinking to that extent?” while another bystander remarked, “I can never kill myself because of thinking.” Some members of the public were also heard appealing to the boat operator not to immediately hand the woman over to the police, reflecting concerns about her emotional state. Others responded, “Pray to never be in that position.” The successful rescue has highlighted the importance of a swift emergency response, as the presence of boat operators in the area—who are often close to the water—can be critical during such emergencies. The incident has also sparked conversations online about the growing need for mental health awareness, emotional support systems, and timely intervention for individuals experiencing psychological distress. Reacting to the video, an X user, James JERRY, questioned why the woman appeared to be sitting alone in the canoe after being rescued. “But why is she alone? What if she jumps again? The man is paddling his canoe, who will help out, then?” he wrote. Another user, Kingkosec, described the rescue as both a blessing and a challenge for the woman, writing, “Worst and best thing that can happen to anyone is to be rescued like her. Worst for not fulfilling your wish, best that you will still live again.”

As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not issued an official statement on the incident, and details about the woman’s identity, age, and condition remain unknown. It is also not clear whether she was taken to a hospital, placed in the care of relatives, or referred for psychological support. The Lagos State Police Command and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) have not commented on the rescue. The absence of an official update has left many concerned about the woman’s post-rescue care, particularly given the psychological trauma associated with such incidents.

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The incident adds to a growing list of cases involving people entering the Lagos Lagoon from major bridges in the city. In recent months and years, there have been several similar occurrences, with some ending tragically and others resulting in successful rescues. In June 2026, the Marine Police Unit of the Lagos State Police Command rescued a 23-year-old man, Joshua Babalola, after he jumped into the lagoon from the Third Mainland Bridge. He told authorities he had acted out of overwhelming financial difficulties and feelings of hopelessness. Police confirmed he was the second person in three months to be rescued from the lagoon. In July 2025, police operatives from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) rescued an elderly woman from Carter Bridge. She was counselled and released into the care of her husband and son. The police had earlier in the year rescued a 35-year-old woman from the lagoon at Falomo Bridge in Ikoyi, with the state government offering her psychological and social support. In April 2023, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the death of a man, identified as Buka Abana, after he entered the lagoon from the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge. His body was recovered two days later. There have also been several other successful rescue efforts: in July 2020, police operatives rescued a 45-year-old man, Adeyinka Abiodun, who reportedly attempted to enter the lagoon from a bridge. At the time, the incident was described as the eighth such attempt prevented within two months. In September 2021, police stopped a 54-year-old Oworonsoki resident, Akinlolu Ajayi, from entering the lagoon at the Third Mainland Bridge. In April 2022, a 67-year-old Ogun State resident, Oluwatoye Bamigboye, was rescued after a similar incident on the Third Mainland Bridge. In May 2023, police reportedly prevented a 25-year-old street hawker, Rabiu Nafiu, from entering the lagoon from the Third Mainland Bridge. In November 2023, soldiers attached to the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army rescued Francesca Spark after she entered the lagoon at the 81 Division Officers’ Mess in Marina. In June 2024, passersby and officers of the Rapid Response Squad of the Lagos State Police Command intervened to prevent an American citizen from entering the lagoon from the Third Mainland Bridge.

Experts say the priority after such incidents should be ensuring the person’s immediate safety and connecting them with appropriate medical, psychological, and social support. Rather than judging or ridiculing people in distress, members of the public can help by listening, offering support, and directing them to professional assistance. The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Health, has in the past offered counselling and rehabilitation support to individuals rescued from such situations. However, many residents have called for more robust mental health infrastructure and greater public awareness to prevent such incidents from occurring in the first place. If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a mental health professional or call a helpline. You are not alone.

Boat Operators Rescue Woman Who Jumped Into Lagos Lagoon From Carter Bridge

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Tinubu Approves Historic 30–80% Military Pay Rise, N924bn Annual Wage Bill

Published

9 hours ago

August 5, 2026

Trends Admin

FG Clears N39.6bn Pension Arrears for Former NITEL, PHCN, Bank Workers

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Tinubu Approves Historic 30–80% Military Pay Rise, N924bn Annual Wage Bill

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a salary increase for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, describing the decision as “a landmark demonstration of the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, morale and operational effectiveness of the gallant officers and men who continue to make immense sacrifices in defence of the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.” In a statement issued on Tuesday, Matawalle said the review of military salaries had remained a priority since the inception of the current administration, adding that he personally championed the initiative within government. He thanked President Tinubu for what he described as his visionary leadership and commitment to the welfare of military personnel. “It is a clear reflection of your passion for building a motivated, resilient and highly professional Armed Forces capable of effectively addressing Nigeria’s security challenges,” he said. The new salary structure, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Under the tiered arrangement, the lowest-paid private is expected to earn about N187,000 monthly, a significant increase from the previous N104,000. The annual wage bill for the armed forces will rise from N660 billion to N924 billion, reflecting an additional N264 billion in personnel costs.

Matawalle provided the following breakdown of the salary increases: personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80% increase; personnel from Warrant Officer to Colonel will receive a 50% increase; and senior officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier-General, Major-General, Lieutenant-General and General, will receive a 30% increase. The tiered approach reflects the administration’s recognition that lower-ranking personnel, who bear the brunt of frontline combat operations, require the most substantial uplift in remuneration. This differentiated structure ensures that those at the base of the military pyramid receive the largest proportional increase.

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Quoting President Tinubu, the minister said: “The men and women who help to keep us safe in our homes must be supported and appreciated in the course of their duties to our nation.” The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising troop welfare while accelerating the modernisation of the Armed Forces through improved weapons systems and technological capabilities. The salary review forms part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to improve the welfare of troops engaged in counter-terrorism, anti-banditry, anti-kidnapping, and other internal security operations nationwide. Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security challenges across different regions, including Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks in the northeast, banditry in the northwest, and kidnapping-for-ransom in parts of the north-central, as well as separatist-linked violence in the southeast.

The salary increment follows recent efforts by the Tinubu administration to address long-standing welfare concerns within the armed forces. In December 2024, following protests by military retirees at the Federal Ministry of Finance, President Tinubu directed the release of funds for the payment of pension arrears and other entitlements owed to retired military personnel. Matawalle had praised the president at the time for facilitating the immediate payment of the three-month salary increase and the release of funds to settle pension arrears and other entitlements. The minister acknowledged the efforts and support of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, who was committed to actualising the payments. The previous salary increment for military personnel ranged between 20 and 28 per cent, covering January to November 2024. Retirees had also demanded overdue payments for palliatives from October 2023 to November 2024, an additional N32,000 added to their pensions, bulk payment of the Security Debarment Allowance, and the refund of pension deductions made from the salaries of medically boarded soldiers.

The minister also assured that the government would continue to prioritise the welfare of military personnel while strengthening the Armed Forces through the acquisition of modern weapons, equipment and advanced technological capabilities. In line with this commitment, the Ministry has pursued strategic initiatives including a Memorandum of Understanding and joint venture agreement for the establishment of an ammunition production factory in Nigeria. Matawalle has promised that before the expiration of the president’s four-year term, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) will begin exporting its military capabilities. This initiative is expected to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign arms imports, save foreign exchange, and position the country as a regional defence manufacturing hub.

Matawalle urged members of the Armed Forces to see the salary increase as recognition of their sacrifices and a renewed call to service. “I urge our servicemen to take this gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland. Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation,” he said. The minister’s call for renewed commitment comes at a time when the military faces multiple fronts in the fight against insecurity. The salary increase is expected to significantly boost troop morale, improve retention rates, and enhance the overall operational effectiveness of the armed forces in confronting Nigeria’s security challenges.

The latest salary hike is expected to significantly boost troop morale and improve retention rates within the armed forces. Matawalle has consistently emphasised that the Tinubu administration is committed to enhancing the capabilities of the Nigerian military through the provision of modern hardware and equipment, timely payment of allowances, and salary increases. With the new salary structure taking effect from September 2026, military personnel across all ranks stand to benefit significantly from the administration’s renewed focus on welfare and operational effectiveness. The federal government has urged the Nigerian military to remain steadfast in their duties while assuring them of continued support in combating insecurity across the nation.