Economic Sabotage: NRC operatives nab suspected rail track vandal in Lagos

*Dr. Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, explains how security operatives arrested 32-year-old Bashiru Hafeez, a suspected track vandal, in Lagos, assuring Nigerians of continued offensive against the destruction and theft of railway assets in the country

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

Following recent a report of damage to critical rail infrastructure, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has arrested Bashiru Hafeez (male, 32 years), a suspected track vandal, in Lagos.

Callistus Unyimadu, NRC’s spokesman, who disclosed this development in a statement Sunday, March 29, 2026, 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, an area within the Lagos rail network.”

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

The statement also disclosed the Corporation arrested Hafeez Thursday, March 26, 2026, by vigilant security personnel from Multi Eye Security Services attached to Mobolaji Johnson Train Station (MJS), Ebute-Metta, during a routine patrol.

Unyimadu further said: “Following his arrest, the suspect was immediately handed over to the Nigerian Railway Police Command for investigation and prosecution.

“Subsequently, he was arraigned before a competent court in Lagos, where he was remanded in custody at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre, pending further hearing. The case has been adjourned to April 24, 2026.”

Vandalisation of rail infrastructure is economic sabotage: Dr. Kayode Opeifa

The statement also noted Dr. Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NRC, reiterated the Corporation’s zero tolerance for vandalism.

Opeifa described such acts as economic sabotage capable of endangering lives and undermining national infrastructure.

The Managing Director/CEO of NRC applauded the security personnel for their vigilance and swift response.

He equally assured Nigerians, that the Corporation, in collaboration with security agencies, would continue to intensify efforts at identifying, arresting, and prosecuting all individuals and syndicates involved in the destruction and theft of railway assets.

Opeifa further warned that anyone found culpable in vandalising railway infrastructure, or dealing in stolen railway materials will face the full weight of the law.

The Corporation urged the general public to remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activities around railway corridors.

The NRC Chief as well stressed the railway remains a critical national asset that must be protected by all.

The Corporation further reassured rail passengers and stakeholders of its unwavering commitment to safe, secure, and efficient rail operations across Nigeria.

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