My attention has been drawn to the widely-circulated reports of the derailment of some coaches of a scheduled train service operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) between Itakpe, Kogi State and Warri in Delta State, which happened on Thursday, 4th July, 2024.
- Upon receipt of the news of this unfortunate incident and enquiries made, my observation is that the unfortunate incident did not result in any fatalities. The incident occurred at Ujewhu near Abraka in Delta State at about 7.15pm on Thursday night.
- I have directed the NRC, as the operator, to immediately ensure the safety and welfare of all passengers on board the train, ensure the evacuation of the distressed coaches from the tracks in order to guarantee the resumption of services as soon as possible and produce a comprehensive report of the incident for my consideration. I have also been assured that the NRC has commenced steps in the above direction, and all indications point to the fact that normalcy is gradually being restored on the service.
- I further express my candid sympathy with all persons who were on board the train at the time of the incident and wish to assure the general public, particularly those patronizing the train services of their safety and welfare. The recent incidents involving our trains are currently being addressed through pro-active measures in view of the discovery that a significant number of such incidents were the direct result of incidents of vandalism and criminality along the rail tracks by deviants who do not wish our country well.
- I wish to also direct that all stakeholders in safe and secure operations in the railway industry should immediately put their best foot forward for continuous service to our people and our dear motherland.
Signed.
Senator Said Ahmed Alkali,
Honourable Minister.
