by Ogbeni Olawale Dawodu
Several passengers are feared dead after a train operating along the Warri–Itakpe rail corridor derailed on Monday, sparking emergency rescue efforts.
The exact number of casualties remains unclear, as authorities continue search, rescue, and assessment operations at the scene.
Confirming the incident, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) said emergency personnel and relevant agencies had been deployed to assist affected passengers and manage the situation.
In a statement signed by the NRC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kayode Opeifa, the corporation said:
“The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) confirms that an incident involving the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) occurred today.
“Emergency response teams and relevant authorities are currently at the scene attending to the situation and providing necessary assistance.”
The NRC added that it is closely monitoring developments and will provide further updates as more details emerge.
“The corporation is closely monitoring developments, and a detailed statement will be issued as soon as more information becomes available,” the statement added.
Authorities are expected to release additional information as investigations continue and rescue operations progress.
