Transportation Ministry confirms infant among victims as authorities launch investigation into Delta rail accident….
The Federal Ministry of Transportation has confirmed that four people, including an infant, lost their lives in the train derailment that occurred along the Warri-Itakpe rail corridor in Delta State, while at least 24 others sustained serious injuries.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Monday near Agbor, triggered a large-scale emergency response involving federal and state agencies, security personnel, and medical teams.
In an official update issued on Tuesday, the ministry disclosed that the number of fatalities had increased from the three initially reported, following further assessments of the accident.
According to the ministry, the victims comprise two adult women, one adult man, and an infant.
Preliminary findings indicate that four coaches overturned during the incident, while another coach derailed, causing widespread panic among passengers and resulting in multiple injuries.
Officials revealed that a total of 482 people were on board the train at the time of the accident, including 442 passengers and 40 crew members, security personnel, and service providers.
Emergency rescue operations were immediately activated following the derailment, 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), and other first responders.
The ministry said the rescue mission was successfully concluded by approximately 6:30 p.m., with injured passengers evacuated to hospitals and medical facilities in Agbor for urgent treatment.
Authorities confirmed that 24 passengers suffered serious injuries, while several others sustained varying degrees of wounds and are currently receiving medical care.
Among those affected by the incident were prominent passengers, including Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents Delta Central Senatorial District, and former Delta State Government Secretary, Patrick Ukah.
The ministry also disclosed that a member of staff of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) suffered a traumatic limb injury during the accident and is receiving treatment in stable condition.
Expressing sympathy to the families of the deceased, the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Nigerian Railway Corporation extended their condolences and wished injured victims a speedy recovery.
The government further commended emergency responders, security agencies, medical personnel, local authorities, and members of the public who participated in the rescue and evacuation efforts.
Officials confirmed that the train’s passenger manifest has been fully recovered and will be made available to relevant authorities as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to formally identify all injured and deceased persons, while investigators work to determine the exact cause of the derailment.
The accident has renewed concerns about rail safety in Nigeria and is expected to intensify calls for stricter maintenance procedures and enhanced safety measures across the country’s railway network.
