Armed persons Monday evening attacked a Kaduna-bound train carrying hundreds of passengers.The train, which left Abuja at about 6 p.m., was attacked between Katari and Rijana.
The Kaduna State Government confirmed the attack but said it was successfully repelled.
One of the passengers aboard the train, Anas Iro-Danmusa, took to Facebook to solicit for prayers for those in the train.
He said the armed persons planted explosives on the rail which damaged the train’s engines.
“Please this is an emergency. We are inside train at the moment. Kidnappers planted explosives and the train engines have been ruined. We are helpless. Abuja to Kaduna train. Gunshots still being fired right around us. We are just under the seats praying to God while waiting for help. Since 8pm we have been here. Btw Katari to Rijana. I am a living witness,” he posted around 9:07 p.m.
According to him, the bandits had surrounded the train and made efforts to enter the coaches but the doors were not opening.
Please, spread the news. We need help. Gunshots,” he posted.
Over an hour after his first post, Mr Danmusa said soldiers had arrived and repelled the attack.
The Abuja-Kaduna train is very popular as it is considered safe compared to the road that has witnessed several attacks by armed persons.
The latest attack on the train may, however, cause many passengers to have a rethink.
Kaduna is one of the states most affected by banditry in North-west Nigeria with thousands of people killed or kidnapped in recent years.
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