By Faridat Salifu
Following numerous passenger complaints regarding ticketing irregularities on the Abuja-Kaduna rail line, the Federal Government has launched a comprehensive investigation into the issue.
Despite the introduction of the e-ticketing system to streamline the booking process, passengers have frequently complained about the rapid sellout of tickets.
Many among the train passengers have raised concerns that tickets are often unavailable online, forcing them to purchase at stations for inflated prices.
Allegations of ticket hoarding and racketeering have emerged, with some station officials accused of withholding tickets to sell them at higher prices.
Meanwhile the Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, has given a hint that directive have been to commence investigation into the issue.
Alkali made this announcement in a statement released on Sunday through his official X handle.
According to the minister, he has directed the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Fidet Okhiria, to establish a committee tasked with investigating the reported ticketing malpractices and identify their underlying causes.
He acknowledged the growing frustrations of passengers who have encountered challenges when attempting to secure tickets for the Abuja-Kaduna rail service.
The committee’s primary goal is to scrutinize the existing ticket purchasing process, pinpoint instances of negligence or mismanagement, and ensure accountability for any identified shortcomings.
“The committee will assess the ticketing system thoroughly, highlight inefficiencies, and recommend necessary changes,” Alkali emphasized in his statement.
He underlined the importance of transparency and accountability. This initiative aims to restore public confidence in the railway system and improve the overall efficiency of ticket distribution.
In addition the minister shared that the NRC has responded to the rising demand by increasing the frequency of train trips along the Abuja-Kaduna route, addressing concerns regarding seat availability, which has been a significant source of frustration for travellers.
Passengers on the Nigerian Railway Corporation’s rail lines, such as the Lagos-Ibadan and Abuja-Kaduna routes, are required to book their tickets through the NRC’s e-ticketing platform.
This process involves creating an account using personal details such as date of birth, gender, and National Identification Number (NIN).
Once registered, users can select their travel details, including departure and destination stations, preferred travel date, and class of service whether First Class, Standard Class, or Business Class. Tickets must be booked at least 48 hours in advance, with payments made via the secure Flutterwave platform.
The minister’s directive comes amid rising dissatisfaction with the ticketing system, and the investigation is expected to lead to significant reforms aimed at improving accessibility and fairness in ticket purchasing.