- Safiu Kehinde
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has condemned the assault on a University of Ibadan lecturer by some of its personnel at the Obafemi Awolowo Train Station in Moniya, Ibadan, Oyo state.
This is coming under the heels of media reports disclosing that the lectuerer identified as Dr. Mikail Abdussalam, was physically assaulted by security personnel attached to the NRC.
The incident reportedly occurred last week when Abdussalam accompanied her sister to the train station for a trip to Lagos.
He was said to have encountered hostility from the security personnel over issue relating to mode of payment for her sister’s ticket.
What initially started as a verbal assault would turn physical as the Chief Security Officer (CSO) allegedly attack the lecturer, kicking him and injuring him in the process.
Reacting to the development in a statement issued on Monday by its Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, the NRC condemned the assault on Abdussalam, stressing that harassment, intimidation, or any form of misconduct towards passengers or members of the public are taken with serious concern by the corporation.
Opeifa disclosed that the NRC management has ordered investigation into the case.
He vowed that disciplinary actions will be taken against any personnel found responsible for the assault.
“The Corporation views the incident with serious concern and wishes to state clearly that harassment, intimidation, or any form of misconduct towards passengers or members of the public is unacceptable and not in line with the values and operational standards of the Nigerian Railway Corporation.
“Management has therefore ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“Any personnel found to have acted contrary to the Corporation’s professional and public service code of conduct will be subjected to appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with established regulations and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” The statement partly read.
The NRC boss apologised to Abdussalam over the assault as he reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to the wellbeing of all passengers and visitors at its stations.
“The Nigerian Railway Corporation sincerely regrets the unfortunate incident and extends its apologies to the gentleman who was assaulted for the distress caused.
“The Corporation remains committed to ensuring that all passengers and visitors at its stations are treated with dignity, respect, and professionalism at all times.
“The NRC assures the public that necessary steps are being taken to reinforce adherence to customer service standards across all its facilities to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.” Opeifa added.