The House Committee on Land Transport has formally summoned the Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Alkali, to clarify the circumstances surrounding the recent derailment of the Abuja-Kaduna train.
The accident, which took place on August 25, left at least six passengers injured.
After the minister failed to respond to an earlier invitation concerning the incident, the committee has now imposed a strict 48-hour deadline for his appearance.
Committee Chairperson Blessing Onuh voiced strong condemnation during the session, stressing that the minister’s disregard for the urgent demand for transparency from the public is unacceptable.
She stated, “A toad does not flee in broad daylight without cause. Despite being on recess, numerous members interrupted their break and traveled from Lagos to confront this national emergency.”
“Yet, the minister opted to ignore the parliament’s summons. This is a serious issue, as the safety of our citizens was put at risk. We cannot overlook this.”
As a result, she declared the suspension of the meeting and insisted on the minister’s personal attendance within two days.
Philip Agbese, Deputy Spokesman of the House, criticized the minister’s absence as a blatant display of negligence and disrespect toward Nigerians.
“This behavior signals an inability to meet the responsibilities entrusted by the President,” he remarked.
“It conveys a disturbing impression that the minister is indifferent to the wellbeing of Nigerians and the integrity of the government.”
“The President has clearly instructed that no minister or agency should ignore parliamentary summons.”
“By defying this order, the minister is showing contempt. Failure to comply would effectively mean the absence of a functioning Minister of Transportation in the nation.”
Representative Cyril Hart also expressed disappointment, pointing out that Alkali, a former legislator himself, has shown disrespect to the House by evading the committee’s call.
“The near loss of over 600 lives in this accident raises profound questions about the safety and dependability of our rail infrastructure,” he observed.
“For someone who once served in this chamber to avoid accountability when citizens demand answers is a breach of public trust.”
“Even the Managing Director of the Railway Corporation, who has previously sought parliamentary approval, recognizes the importance of honoring this institution. We must not permit anyone to endanger the lives of our people.”
