NRC MD apologises for harassing journalist at train crash scene

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Kayode Opeifa, has issued a public apology for verbally harassing journalist Ladi Bala during her coverage of the Abuja-Kaduna train derailment. Bala, a correspondent with the Nigeria Television Authority and former president of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, was reporting from the scene when the incident occurred. The derailment, which happened on August 26, involved a train travelling from Abuja to Kaduna and resulted in several coaches toppling off the tracks. The Federal Capital Territory chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists had condemned Opeifa’s conduct and demanded a formal apology. Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, the NRC MD described his remarks against the journalist as “regrettable”, saying he was under pressure while managing the situation. “I wish to sincerely apologise for the regrettable remarks I made, which were directed at a seasoned journalist and reflected poorly on the NUJ FCT and NAWOJ,” he said. “Acting under pressure and in the heat of the moment while trying to ensure safety, I uttered some unkind words for which I take full responsibility. Opeifa named Bala as the ambassador for media advocacy. “To her, I offer my fullest apology. I also extend the same to the NTA, NAWOJ, and the wider journalism community. I have fought alongside journalists before; I am not their enemy,” the MD said. “The media remain our partners, not adversaries. We will deepen collaboration with the NUJ, NAWOJ, and civil society to promote transparency and public trust.”