…Tinubu inherited a failing system – Akpabio
The Nigerian Senate has resolved to conduct an extensive probe into railway projects executed under former President Muhammadu Buhari, following repeated derailments and operational failures on the Itakpe–Warri standard gauge rail line.
The upper chamber established an ad hoc committee tasked with investigating contracts, funding, and execution of all rail projects undertaken during Buhari’s administration.
The committee is expected to submit its report within six weeks. Senators Adams Oshiomhole, Huseini Babaginda, Adamu Aliero, Wasiu Eshinlokun, Osita Ngwu, Adeola Solomon, Ibrahim Dankwabo, Ireti Kingibe, and Sahabi Yau were named as members of the panel.
The resolution followed a motion by Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central), who highlighted the “disturbing and persistent technical breakdowns” of the Itakpe–Warri rail line—a flagship project of the previous administration.
Between 2023 and 2025, the corridor reportedly experienced at least ten derailments, raising concerns over passenger safety and public confidence in Nigeria’s rail network.
Dafinone urged the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and the Ministry of Transportation to conduct an independent technical assessment, increase operational capacity, and ensure at least two daily passenger services in each direction.
Several lawmakers underscored the national significance of the investigation. Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) described the situation as a “national embarrassment,” stressing the need for accountability.
Senator Patrick Ndubueze (Imo North) called for a complete overhaul of the NRC, arguing that road infrastructure is under unnecessary pressure due to the failing rail system.
Senator Solomon Adeola (Ogun West) demanded a transparent review of project financing, contractors, and adherence to due process. Senator Babangida Hussaini (Jigawa North-West) highlighted poor planning and maintenance culture as recurring challenges, contrasting Nigeria’s experience with the durable Mombasa–Nairobi railway in Kenya built by similar contractors.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio delivered a pointed critique of past mismanagement, warning that individuals responsible for previous failures were attempting a political comeback in 2027.
He expressed shock at the rapid deterioration of projects that cost “trillions of naira” and questioned whether some lines were improperly refurbished rather than genuinely new.
Akpabio clarified that most derailments occurred before the Tinubu administration, asserting that the current government inherited a failing system.
He urged the Senate to uncover the truth, hold negligent parties accountable, and prevent history from repeating itself.
The Senate adopted resolutions mandating immediate repairs to the Itakpe–Warri line, additional rolling stock deployment, and enhanced safety protocols.
The Committee on Land Transport was tasked with on-site assessments, while a National Rail Safety and Standards Unit will enforce periodic audits and compliance with international best practices.
Akpabio emphasised the Senate’s commitment to transparency and public accountability.
He said: “We owe Nigerians the truth. Those who mismanaged these rail projects must face scrutiny, and the lessons must prevent a repeat of past failures.”
