The Warri-Itakpe Train Service derailed just three days after resuming operations, an incident the NRC attributes to “suspected track vandalism,” although all passengers were safely evacuated with no casualties recorded.
The Warri-Itakpe Train Service derailed on Saturday evening, only three days after operations resumed on the 326-kilometer line. The incident, involving two out of seven coaches, occurred around 7:30 PM at Kilometer 212+8m, Agbor.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) confirmed the derailment in a statement on Sunday, attributing the likely cause to “suspected track vandalism.”
NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, assured the public that all passengers were safely evacuated and accounted for. “No casualties or injuries were recorded,” he stated. The corporation previously suspended services in April to fix a track fault.
As a safety precaution, the NRC has “temporarily suspended” train services on the corridor today to allow for a comprehensive security and safety audit. The NRC expressed regret over the inconvenience, noting that normal operations would resume once the track is verified safe. Recovery efforts are currently underway with security support.