The Federal Government has confirmed that a train accident along the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) corridor near Agbor, Delta State, has resulted in four deaths and 24 serious injuries.
This information was released in a statement on Tuesday from the Federal Ministry of Transportation, signed by Permanent Secretary Funsho Adebiyi on behalf of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).
The statement noted that preliminary investigations revealed that four coaches capsized while another derailed.
Regarding the incident, the statement read, “The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) regrets to confirm that a serious train accident occurred yesterday along the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) corridor near Agbor, Delta State.”
It further explained the casualties, stating, “Preliminary reports indicate that four coaches capsized while one coach derailed, resulting in the unfortunate loss of four lives, comprising two adult females, one adult male, and one infant passenger.”
According to the ministry, there were 482 people on board the train, including 442 passengers and 40 staff members, security personnel, and service providers.
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The statement noted, “A total of 442 passengers were booked on the train, while 40 crew members, security personnel, and third-party service providers were also on board, bringing the total number of persons on the train to 482.”
Rescue efforts were launched immediately with the assistance of the Delta State Government and various emergency agencies.
“Rescue and evacuation operations were immediately activated with the support of the Delta State Government, NEMA, FRSC, the Police, Civil Defence, local authorities, security agencies, and other emergency responders, and were completed by 6:30 p.m. Injured passengers were evacuated to medical facilities in Agbor for treatment,” the ministry reported.
The train carried several notable passengers, including Senator Ede Dafinone and Hon. Patrick Ukah.
Regarding the extent of the injuries, the ministry stated, “As of the time of this release, 24 serious injuries have been recorded, while several other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving medical attention. One NRC staff member suffered a traumatic limb injury and is currently receiving treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.”
The Ministry and the NRC expressed their sympathies, saying, “The Ministry and the NRC extend their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the quick recovery of all those injured. The Corporation also appreciates the swift intervention of the Delta State Government, emergency responders, security agencies, the NRC Mechanical Directorate, the Special Rescue and Emergency Team, medical personnel, and members of the public who assisted in the rescue efforts.”
To assist in identification, the passenger manifest has been recovered. “The full onboard manifest has been retrieved and will be made available upon request by the relevant authorities. Efforts are ongoing to identify all the injured and deceased persons for proper documentation.”
Furthermore, a formal investigation into the cause of the derailment is underway, as the ministry added, “A full investigation into the cause of the accident has commenced, while efforts will continue to account for all passengers and provide the necessary support to those affected.”
Following the tragedy, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori offered his condolences and directed state officials to prioritize rescue and support efforts for the survivors.
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