Passengers on the Abuja–Kaduna rail line have alleged widespread overcrowding, ticket racketeering and mechanical issues, saying they were forced to stand for over three hours on a journey originally designed to last about two hours.
Some commuters claimed they could not secure tickets through the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) online platform, alleging that officials resold tickets at inflated prices. Solomon Abiona said he paid ₦6,000 per ticket — above the official ₦3,600 fare — and was issued tickets not bearing his group’s names. On their return trip, he said they were given tickets without seat numbers and had to stand after rightful seat holders arrived.
Another passenger, Ibrahim Bulus, blamed overcrowding on the reduction of daily trips, especially during weekends, while others reported repeated overheating that led to lights and air conditioning shutting down mid-journey.
John Fabunmi described the experience as frightening, alleging that attendants were seen pouring water on an overheated component, causing the train to slow significantly. He said the ordeal left him unwilling to use the service again. Wusi Lawrence also criticised the service, saying it fell short of modern rail standards.
Responding, NRC spokesman Abubakar Bunma denied overbooking, insisting tickets are generated online with passengers’ names and National Identification Numbers. He acknowledged occasional booking failures and said passengers who insist on travelling without seats may be allowed to stand. Bunma clarified that water was poured on the power car generator — not the locomotive engine — during an overheating incident, and maintained that the corporation does not permit standing on long-distance trips. He added that travel time was extended to three hours after a 2025 accident for safety reasons and disclosed plans to increase daily trips to meet demand.
Despite the NRC’s explanations, many commuters say the service has fallen short of expectations, calling for improved ticketing, stricter staff oversight and better maintenance to restore public confidence.
