The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has apprehended a suspected track vandal in Lagos.
In a statement on Sunday, NRC spokesman Callistus Unyimadu said the suspect was “caught in possession of fifteen (15) pandrol clips (iron rail fasteners) believed to have been unlawfully 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 potential derailment,” he added.
The suspect, Bashiru Hafeez, 32, was arrested on Thursday, March 26, 2026, by security personnel from Multi Eye Security Services attached to Mobolaji Johnson Train Station (MJS), Ebute-Metta, during a routine patrol.
Unyimadu said the suspect was “immediately handed over to the Nigerian Railway Police Command for investigation and prosecution. He was arraigned before a competent court in Lagos and remanded at Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending further hearing. The case has been adjourned to April 24, 2026.”
NRC Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Kayode Opeifa, reiterated the Corporation’s zero tolerance for vandalism, describing such acts as economic sabotage that endangers lives and undermines national infrastructure.
He commended the security personnel for their vigilance and assured the public that NRC, in collaboration with security agencies, will continue to intensify efforts to identify, arrest, and prosecute individuals and syndicates involved in railway asset theft.
Opeifa further warned that anyone found vandalising railway infrastructure or trading in stolen materials “will face the full weight of the law.”
The Corporation urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity around railway corridors, emphasising that the railway is a critical national asset. It reassured passengers and stakeholders of its commitment to safe, secure, and efficient rail operations across the country.
