The Federal Ministry of Transportation has confirmed that four people, including an infant, lost their lives in Monday’s train derailment along the Warri-Itakpe rail corridor in Delta State.
TheCable had earlier reported that the accident occurred when a train derailed at Agbor, triggering a large-scale emergency response from rescue agencies.
While the Presidency initially put the death toll at three, the Ministry updated the figure on Tuesday, stating that four fatalities were recorded.
In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Funsho Adebiyi, the Ministry explained that multiple coaches were affected in the incident.
“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 said.
According to the Ministry, the train had 442 passengers on board, along with 40 crew members, security personnel, and service providers, bringing the total number of occupants to 482.
Rescue operations were immediately launched in collaboration with the Delta State Government, NEMA, FRSC, the police, NSCDC, and other emergency responders. The exercise was concluded by 6:30 p.m., with injured victims taken to hospitals in Agbor for treatment.
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The Ministry also confirmed that 24 passengers sustained serious injuries, while several others suffered varying degrees of harm and are currently receiving medical care. A staff member of the Nigerian Railway Corporation reportedly suffered a traumatic limb injury but is in stable condition.
Notable passengers on the train included Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents Delta Central, and former Delta State SSG, Patrick Ukah.
Authorities said the passenger manifest has been recovered, while efforts are ongoing to properly identify victims and document casualties. A full investigation has also been launched to determine the cause of the derailment.
The Ministry and the NRC expressed condolences to families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery, while commending emergency responders for their swift intervention.