By Seun Ibiyemi
The Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) have confirmed the death of four passengers and injuries to several others following a train accident along the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) corridor near Agbor in Delta State.
According to a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Engr. Funsho Adebiyi, the accident occurred on Monday when four coaches capsized and one coach derailed during the journey.
The victims were identified as two adult women, one adult man, and an infant.
The NRC disclosed that 442 passengers had booked for the trip, while 40 crew members, security personnel, and third-party service providers were on board, bringing the total number of occupants on the train to 482.
Emergency rescue and evacuation operations were immediately launched 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 response agencies.
The operation was successfully concluded by 6:30 p.m., with injured passengers evacuated to medical facilities in Agbor for treatment.
The ministry disclosed that 24 passengers sustained serious injuries, while several others suffered varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
Among those affected was an NRC staff member who suffered a traumatic limb injury and is reported to be in stable condition while undergoing treatment.
The train also conveyed several prominent Nigerians, including the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, and former Delta State Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Patrick Ukah.
Expressing condolences to the bereaved families, the Ministry and the NRC described the incident as tragic and pledged continued support for victims and their relatives.
“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 statement said.
The railway corporation also commended the Delta State Government, emergency responders, security agencies, medical personnel, members of the NRC Mechanical Directorate, and the Special Rescue and Emergency Team for their swift response and support during the rescue operation.
READ ALSO:LASWA, Interferry launch practical phase of ferry safety development programme
Authorities said the train’s full passenger manifest had been retrieved and would be made available to relevant authorities upon request. Efforts are also ongoing to identify all injured and deceased persons for proper documentation.
Meanwhile, a comprehensive investigation has commenced to determine the cause of the accident.
The NRC assured the public that efforts would continue to account for all passengers and provide the necessary assistance and support to those affected by the incident.
