The Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, has tendered an unreserved apology to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, following his assault on Ladi Bala, a staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and a member of the NUJ.

 

Opeifa offered the apology on Sunday during a press conference at the NUJ FCT secretariat in Abuja.

 

The incident occurred last week during media coverage of the Abuja-Kaduna train derailment in Jere, which left six passengers injured. Journalists at the scene had reported being subjected to harassment and unwholesome treatment, a development that sparked outrage within the media community.

 

The NUJ FCT, in a swift reaction, strongly condemned the action and demanded a public apology from the NRC boss, describing the treatment of its members as unacceptable.

 

Responding to the demand, Opeifa admitted fault, explaining that his remarks and conduct were made in the heat of the moment.

 

> “I wish to offer my apology for the regrettable remarks I made, which were not only directed at a seasoned journalist but also reflected unfavourably on the NUJ FCT and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ). Acting under pressure in my attempt to ensure safety, I made certain unkind statements. For this, I take full responsibility, and I am deeply sorry,” he said.

 

 

 

Chairman of NUJ FCT, Grace Ike, acknowledged the apology and appealed for calm among journalists, stressing the need for continuous mutual respect between the media and public institutions.

 

The Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor has witnessed several challenges in recent years, with the latest derailment on Tuesday once again drawing attention to safety concerns along the route.