Three Feared Dead, 35 Injured as Warri-Itakpe Train Derails in Delta

By Johnson Arua

Three persons are feared dead and at least 35 others injured following the derailment of the Warri-Itakpe train in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The incident occurred on Monday when four coaches reportedly veered off the track, triggering panic among passengers and prompting an emergency rescue operation.

Although details surrounding the cause of the accident were still sketchy as of press time, security personnel, emergency responders, and local residents swiftly mobilized to rescue trapped passengers and evacuate the injured to nearby hospitals.

Chairman of Ika North-East Local Government Council, Mr. Monday Odigwe, confirmed that 35 injured passengers were receiving treatment in three hospitals across the area.

According to him, 13 victims were admitted at Central Hospital, Agbor, while 12 others were being treated at General Hospital, Owa-Oyibu. Another 10 injured passengers were taken to General Hospital, Owa-Alero for medical attention.

Odigwe further disclosed that authorities had assured local officials that efforts would be made to recover and reposition the derailed train on Tuesday.

Reacting to the incident, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, expressed deep sadness over the tragedy, describing it as both heartbreaking and unfortunate.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

“The loss of lives is a painful tragedy for the affected families and for Delta State as a whole,” the statement quoted the governor as saying.

Governor Oborevwori also assured residents that the state government had promptly mobilized relevant agencies to the scene to support rescue efforts and ensure an effective emergency response.

He directed the Commissioner for Special Duties, alongside the chairmen of Ika South and Ika North-East Local Government Areas, to immediately proceed to the accident scene and coordinate rescue and relief operations.

Authorities are expected to commence investigations into the cause of the derailment as rescue and recovery efforts continue.