Three Killed as Warri-Itakpe Train Derails in Delta, NRC Launches Investigation

At least three people have been confirmed dead following the derailment of the Warri-Itakpe Train Service (WITS) in Delta State, according to the Presidency and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).

The incident, which occurred on Monday, triggered an emergency response from railway authorities and other relevant agencies, with rescue teams deployed to the scene to assist affected passengers and assess the extent of the damage.

Confirming the accident, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, said emergency teams were immediately mobilised to the crash site.

“Emergency response teams and relevant authorities are currently at the scene attending to the situation and providing necessary assistance,” Opeifa said in a statement.

The Presidency also confirmed the fatalities, stating that three persons lost their lives in the derailment, while investigations have commenced to determine the cause of the incident.

According to the statement, relevant authorities are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash while providing support and assistance to passengers affected by the tragedy.

“Relevant authorities continue to assess the full circumstances surrounding the incident, while support is being provided to affected passengers,” the statement noted.

“The thoughts and prayers of all Nigerians are with the victims and their loved ones.”

The NRC urged members of the public to rely on verified information and official updates as rescue operations and investigations continue.

The Warri-Itakpe rail corridor, one of Nigeria’s busiest standard-gauge rail lines, connects Delta State to Kogi State and serves thousands of passengers annually.

Authorities have yet to release details on the number of passengers onboard or the possible factors that led to the derailment.

Further updates are expected as investigations progress and officials provide additional information on casualties, injuries and the condition of affected passengers.