Deadly Derailment: Four Passengers Killed, Rescue Teams Race to Save Victims in Delta

Deadly Derailment: Four Passengers Killed, Rescue Teams Race to Save Victims in Delta

June 9, 2026

A devastating rail accident along Nigeria's strategic Warri–Itakpe Train Service corridor has claimed the lives of four passengers and left at least 24 others seriously injured after several coaches derailed and overturned near Agbor in Delta State.

The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), confirmed the casualty figures on Tuesday, describing the incident as one of the most serious railway accidents recorded on the route in recent years.

According to an official statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Funsho Adebiyi, preliminary investigations revealed that four coaches capsized while another coach derailed completely during the tragic incident, throwing hundreds of passengers into panic and triggering a large-scale emergency response operation.

"The Nigerian Railway Corporation regrets to confirm that a serious train accident occurred along the Warri–Itakpe Train Service corridor near Agbor, Delta State," the statement said.

Authorities disclosed that the deceased victims included two adult women, one adult man, and an infant, while dozens of other passengers sustained injuries of varying severity.

The train was carrying a total of 482 people at the time of the accident, including 442 booked passengers and 40 crew members, security personnel, and third-party service providers.

Emergency rescue operations were immediately launched following the derailment, with support from the Delta State Government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local authorities, and other emergency responders.

Rescue teams worked for several hours to evacuate victims from the damaged coaches and transport the injured to medical facilities in Agbor and surrounding areas. Authorities confirmed that the rescue operation was successfully concluded at approximately 6:30 p.m.

"As of the time of this release, 24 serious injuries have been recorded, while several other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving medical attention," the ministry stated.

The accident also left one NRC staff member with a traumatic limb injury. Officials said the staff member is currently receiving treatment and remains in stable condition.

Among the notable passengers onboard the train were the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, and former Delta State Secretary to the State Government, Patrick Ukah, both of whom reportedly survived the incident.

The Federal Government expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families.

"The Ministry and the Nigerian Railway Corporation extend their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the speedy recovery of all injured passengers," the statement added.

Authorities further revealed that the train's complete passenger manifest has been recovered and will assist in the identification and documentation of all victims and survivors.

Investigators have commenced a comprehensive probe into the circumstances surrounding the derailment as questions emerge over what may have caused the accident on one of Nigeria's most important rail corridors.

Meanwhile, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, described the incident as tragic and heartbreaking. The governor extended his sympathies to the affected families and directed relevant state agencies to work closely with federal authorities and emergency responders to ensure victims receive adequate medical care and support.

The Warri–Itakpe rail line, a key transportation link connecting Delta State to Kogi State and other parts of the country, has become increasingly popular among travelers due to its affordability and relative safety. Monday's disaster has therefore raised fresh concerns about rail safety standards and infrastructure maintenance within Nigeria's growing railway network.

As investigations continue, families of passengers and concerned Nigerians await answers regarding the cause of the derailment and the measures that will be taken to prevent a recurrence of such a devastating tragedy.

The Federal Government has assured the public that every effort is being made to account for all passengers, support affected families, and determine the exact cause of the accident. Officials say findings from the ongoing investigation will guide future safety measures aimed at strengthening confidence in Nigeria's rail transport system.