By Chesa Chesa
Senator representing Delta Central, Ede Dafinone, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic accident involving the Warri–Itakpe Train Service near Agbor, Delta State, which claimed four lives and left several passengers injured.
In a statement he issued on Tuesday, Dafinone extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and sympathised with those injured in the crash, describing the incident as a devastating tragedy.
According to the senator, although the Nigerian Railway Corporation confirmed that all passengers had been accounted for and that four people lost their lives, the loss of any life was unacceptable.
“Every life lost is one too many, and the pain of the affected families is immeasurable,” he said.
Dafinone said the thoughts of Deltans and Nigerians were with the bereaved families, injured passengers receiving treatment, and survivors who may continue to grapple with the emotional impact of the incident.
He commended the swift response of the Delta State Government, emergency responders, medical personnel, security agencies, railway officials and volunteers whose efforts helped save lives and provide critical assistance to passengers.
The lawmaker described the accident as a stark reminder of the need to prioritise the safety of Nigerians who depend on public transportation.
He noted that the Warri–Itakpe rail corridor remains a vital national asset that serves thousands of passengers and supports economic activities across several states, stressing that its continued success depends on both operational efficiency and public confidence in its safety.
Dafinone called for an immediate, thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
“Such an inquiry must establish the facts, identify any operational or technical failures, and recommend measures to prevent a recurrence. The affected families deserve answers, and the public deserves reassurance that every lesson from this tragedy will be acted upon,” he stated.
The senator also urged the Federal Ministry of Transportation, the Nigerian Railway Corporation and other relevant safety authorities to undertake a comprehensive review of safety and operational protocols along the Warri–Itakpe corridor and across the nation’s rail network.
