The Presidency on Monday confirmed that three passengers died in a train accident involving the Warri–Itakpe Train Service in Agbor, Delta State. It added that emergency responders successfully accounted for all passengers after carrying out rescue operations at the scene.
According to an update posted on X by the Presidency, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) said it swiftly deployed rescue and emergency response teams to the scene shortly after the accident occurred.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), in a statement posted on the official X handle of the Presidency, confirmed that three passengers lost their lives in the incident. It added that efforts are ongoing to establish the cause of the accident, while support is being provided to those affected.
“The thoughts and prayers of Nigerians are with the victims and their families during this difficult time,” the statement read.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation also appealed to the public to follow official channels for accurate information, as investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
In late May, it was reported that the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) suspended the Warri–Itakpe Train Service for six months shortly after it resumed operations.
The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) said it has mobilised emergency response teams to assist in rescue and relief efforts following the incident that occurred on Monday evening.
The organisation said its volunteers responded promptly to the scene after the incident occurred around 4:30 p.m., working with railway authorities, local residents and government agencies to conduct search and rescue operations and provide emergency assistance.
In a statement released on Monday, the Secretary of the NRCS Delta State Branch, Charles Arinomor, said passengers stranded by the incident were evacuated to Agbor town to facilitate the continuation of their journey.
He added that injured passengers were evacuated from the scene and transported to Agbor Central Hospital, where they received medical attention.
According to Charles Arinomor, the Red Cross response involved search and rescue efforts, the provision of first aid, and psychosocial support services for passengers affected by the incident.
“Injured passengers were swiftly evacuated in government ambulances and are currently receiving treatment at Agbor Central Hospital,” he said.
The Red Cross official said the emergency response brought together medical personnel and other first responders, with senior state officials on ground, including the Commissioner for Special Duties, the Commissioner of Police and the Director-General of the State Emergency Management Agency.
He added that search and rescue operations were halted at nightfall and are expected to resume on Tuesday morning.
Authorities have not yet revealed the cause of the derailment.
