Four people lost their lives when a train came off the tracks in Agbor, Delta State, according to an announcement from the Federal Ministry of Transportation on Tuesday, June 8.
Funsho Adebiyi, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, disclosed in a statement that 482 individuals were aboard the ill-fated train.
“Preliminary reports indicate that four coaches capsized while one coach derailed, resulting in the unfortunate loss of four lives, comprising two adult females, one adult male, and one infant passenger,” the statement read in part. “A total of 442 passengers were booked on the train, while 40 crew members, security personnel, and third-party service providers were also on board, bringing the total number of persons on the train to 482.”
Adebiyi said rescue and evacuation efforts wrapped up by 6:30 pm, and those injured were transported to medical facilities in Agbor for care. He noted that 24 people suffered “serious injuries,” while several others sustained less severe wounds. “One NRC staff member suffered a traumatic limb injury and is currently receiving treatment and is reported to be in stable condition,” the ministry said.
Among the passengers on board were Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents Delta Central, and Patrick Ukah, a former Secretary to the Delta State Government, Adebiyi added.
The ministry and the NRC offered their “deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the quick recovery of all those injured.” A “full investigation into the cause of the accident has commenced,” the statement continued, adding that authorities will keep working to account for every passenger and offer support to those affected.
“The full onboard manifest has been retrieved and will be made available upon request by the relevant authorities. Efforts are ongoing to identify all the injured and deceased persons for proper documentation,” the statement read in part.