Owa Monarch Calls for Full Investigation into Train Mishap, Mourns Victims

The Obi of Owa Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Emmanuel Efeizomor II, has called for a full-scale investigation into the train derailment that occurred four days ago at Owa-Oyibu in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State, which left four persons dead and several others injured.

The monarch made the call after visiting the accident scene, urging relevant government agencies to intensify scrutiny of suspected vandalism activities along railway corridors in the area.

He said intelligence reports suggest that unknown individuals often move around railway tracks at night, raising concerns that the derailment may be linked to metal and iron vandals operating within the locality.

Efeizomor called on both federal and state authorities to urgently track down perpetrators of infrastructure vandalism and ensure they are brought to justice, warning that such acts pose serious risks to public safety and national assets.

He also expressed concern over rising insecurity in the Owa community, including kidnapping, banditry, and youth restiveness, describing the situation as troubling and requiring urgent intervention.

The monarch, who is the immediate past Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council and Chairman of the Delta North Traditional Rulers Forum, stressed the need for improved protection of critical infrastructure across the region.

He noted that a proper investigation into the train accident could provide further insight into the activities of suspected vandals operating along the railway line.

Efeizomor further urged security agencies to strengthen surveillance and enforcement mechanisms to curb vandalism, kidnappings, and other criminal activities in the area, adding that community vigilante groups were already supporting official security efforts.

He also expressed concern over what he described as persistent misrepresentation of the Owa Railway Station location as belonging to Agbor, insisting that Owa and Agbor are distinct autonomous kingdoms in different local government areas.

According to him, Owa-Oyibu is the headquarters of Ika North East Local Government Area, while Agbor is the headquarters of Ika South Local Government Area, and urged media organisations to observe proper administrative distinctions in reporting.

The monarch commiserated with families of the victims of the accident and prayed for the speedy recovery of those receiving treatment for their injuries.

He described the incident as tragic and painful, noting that the loss of lives was deeply devastating to affected families and the community at large.

Efeizomor also called on relevant authorities to ensure adequate medical care for the injured and to take urgent steps toward restoring safe rail transportation in the affected corridor.