A commuter’s journey to Abuja turned into a distressing ordeal on Tuesday when a train broke down in a remote forest in Kogi State, forcing passengers to trek for hours through rough terrain.
Marxist activist Kola Edokpayi, who shared a video of the incident, said he had resorted to rail travel from Agbor to Itakpe after failing to get a flight to Abuja. But the train reportedly developed technical issues in a remote area described as an “evil forest”—a region with no mobile network coverage and often associated with herders and security concerns.
“We became apprehensive,” Edokpayi said. “We were stranded in the middle of nowhere, and with no idea how long repairs would take, we decided to start trekking.”
Passengers set off on what he called an “endurance trek,” walking for more than three hours in search of help. In an unexpected twist, Edokpayi said they encountered Fulani herders who turned out to be “remarkably friendly” and offered assistance.
“The Fulani herders we met were helpful and kind. They guided us through unfamiliar paths,” he recounted.
Edokpayi urged the federal government to prioritize maintenance of the rail system and passenger safety. “Flights are canceled without notice, roads are plagued by k+dnapp£rs and bad conditions, and now trains are breaking down in forests. May God help us,” he said.
The incident revives memories of the March 28, 2022 att+ck on an Abuja-Kaduna train, when terrorists detonated explosives on the tracks, derailing the train before opening fire. At least eight people were k+lled, dozens inj¥red, and over 60 passengers abd¥cted.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation suspended operations on the route, while the government faced criticism over security failures. K+dnapped victims were held in captivity for months, with some released only after negotiations and ransom payments.
The incident remains a chilling reminder of the fragile state of Nigeria’s transport infrastructure.
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