MD NRC Dr. Kayode Opeifa Bows to Pressure, Apologizes to Journalists. Over Misrepresentation— NTA Staff Absent at World Press Conference.

In a dramatic turn of events following sustained media backlash, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has publicly apologized to the Nigerian media community over remarks made during a recent rail derailment incident that were widely perceived as insulting and demeaning to journalists, particularly to Comrade Ladi Bala of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

The apology came during a world press conference organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, at its secretariat in Abuja on Sunday. However, in a notable absence, no representatives from the NTA—the institution directly affected—were present at the press event, despite being active members of the NUJ FCT Council.

Dr. Opeifa, addressing a full hall of journalists, explained that his controversial statements were made under intense pressure while coordinating emergency responses to the Abuja–Kaduna rail derailment, which involved eight coaches and one locomotive. He admitted the statements were ill-advised and pledged renewed collaboration with the media.

“I wish to sincerely apologize for the regrettable remarks I made, which were directed at a seasoned journalist and reflected poorly on both the NUJ FCT and NAWOJ,” he stated. “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.”

Comrade Bala, the immediate past president of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), was reportedly subjected to a verbal assault while covering the derailment. Her mistreatment sparked outrage across media circles, leading to calls for an official apology and redress.

In a reconciliatory move, Dr. Opeifa named Comrade Bala an honorary “Ambassador for Media Advocacy”, praising her professionalism and resilience. He also apologized directly to the NTA, NAWOJ, and the broader journalism community, acknowledging the critical role the press plays in national development and public accountability.

Dr. Opeifa further highlighted the NRC’s emergency response during the incident, revealing that 618 passengers were onboard and that 20 sustained injuries, with seven in critical condition. The agency, he said, activated its new emergency protocol within minutes, working with agencies such as NEMA, the Nigerian military, and state governments to ensure safety and recovery.

He also used the occasion to spotlight ongoing railway reforms and achievements under his leadership, including reactivation of dormant rail lines and plans to expand port connectivity across Nigeria.

Veteran journalist and media advocate Chief Mrs. Moji Makanjuola has weighed in on the controversy, calling for a deeper reckoning beyond the apology.

In a strongly worded press statement, Makanjuola commended those who condemned the MD’s actions and emphasized the importance of institutional accountability.

“While I acknowledge that the Managing Director has expressed willingness to issue an apology… I must stress that the first and most important step must be directed to the prime victim—Comrade Ladi Bala. She must be personally pacified and openly apologized to,” she said.

“Furthermore, the Managing Director should tender a formal and unreserved apology to the Nigerian Television Authority, and thereafter to the professional bodies whose members he has undermined.”

She further stated that apologies were not sufficient, calling for a full investigation, implementation of ethical workplace conduct, and training for public officials on gender sensitivity and professional ethics.

“This incident once again exposes the many forms of violence women are subjected to in workplaces, and more disturbingly, the professional harassment and intimidation that journalists continue to endure,” she added.

Makanjuola insisted that such behavior by public officials must not go unchecked, especially in an era where press freedom and professional dignity are increasingly under threat.

FCT NUJ Chairman Comrade Grace Ike described Dr. Opeifa’s apology as a welcome step but warned that the union would not tolerate further attacks on its members.

“We will persist in fighting for our members’ rights and freedom of speech, which is a right, not a privilege,” she said. “With Comrade Ladi Bala as the NRC’s Ambassador for Media Advocacy, we anticipate stronger engagement between NRC and journalists.”

Also present at the briefing was Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Special Duties, Tunde Rahman, who commended the NRC MD for his humility and commitment to dialogue, pledging enhanced cooperation between the media and federal agencies.

While the apology may have quelled immediate tensions, journalists and stakeholders say the real test lies in concrete reforms, accountability, and a commitment to ethical leadership across government institutions.