Ministry, NRC regret Warri-Itakpe train accident

By Temitope Adebiyi

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

Preliminary reports indicate that four coaches capsised while one coach derailed, resulting in the unfortunate loss of Five lives comprising four adults and one baby.

In a statement by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Funsho Adebiy,
a total of 442 passengers were booked on the train, while 40 crew members, security personnel and third-party service providers were on board, bringing the total number of persons on the train to 482.

Rescue and evacuation operations were immediately activated with the support of the Delta State Government, NEMA, FRSC, Police, Civil Defense, local authorities, security agencies, emergency responders and completed by 6:30pm. Others who assisted with the emergency response included Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial district, Senator Dafinone, and former Delta State SSG, Hon. Patrick Ukah among others.

As at 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 extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and prays for the quick recovery of all those injured. The Corporation also appreciates the swift intervention of the Delta State Government, emergency responders, security agencies, NRC Mechanical directorate and Special rescue and emergency team, medical personnel and members of the public who assisted in the rescue efforts.

The full on board manifest has been retrieved and would be available upon request by relevant authorities. Effort is ongoing to identify all the injured and the deceased for proper documentation.

A full investigation into the cause of the accident has commenced, while efforts would continue to account for all passengers and provide necessary support to those affected.