FMOT, NRC Mourn Victims of Warri–Itakpe Train Accident

The Federal Ministry of Transportation (FMOT) and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) have expressed deep regret over the train accident that occurred on the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) corridor near Agbor in Delta State on Monday.

According to preliminary reports, four coaches capsized while one coach derailed, leading to the death of five passengers, comprising four adults and a baby.

The train was carrying 442 passengers, while 40 crew members, security personnel and third-party service providers were on board, bringing the total number of occupants to 482.

The Ministry disclosed that rescue and evacuation operations were immediately activated with support from the Delta State Government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local authorities and other emergency responders. The operation was successfully concluded by 6:30 p.m.

The rescue efforts also received support from the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, former Delta State Secretary to the State Government, Patrick Ukah, and other stakeholders.

The Ministry said that 24 passengers sustained serious injuries, while several others suffered varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical attention. One NRC staff member reportedly suffered a traumatic limb injury and is receiving treatment in stable condition.

The Ministry and NRC extended their condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

They also commended the Delta State Government, emergency responders, security agencies, medical personnel, members of the public, the NRC Mechanical Directorate and the corporation’s Special Rescue and Emergency Team for their prompt response and assistance during the rescue operation.

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The NRC stated that the full passenger manifest has been retrieved and will be made available to relevant authorities upon request. Efforts are also ongoing to identify all injured passengers and the deceased for proper documentation.

Meanwhile, a full-scale investigation has commenced to determine the cause of the accident, while authorities continue efforts to account for all passengers and provide necessary support to those affected.