ABUJA/Nigeria: Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, has called for an immediate and transparent investigation into the tragic accident involving the Ujevwu–Itakpe Train Service near Agbor, Delta State, which claimed lives and left several passengers injured.
Dafinone, in a statement issued on Tuesday, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended his condolences to the families of the victims, describing the tragedy as a painful reminder of the need to strengthen safety measures across Nigeria’s transportation system.
The senator said he received news of the accident with profound sadness, noting that while the Nigerian Railway Corporation confirmed that three passengers lost their lives and all others were accounted for, the loss of even a single life was one too many.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the families of those who lost their lives in this devastating incident. I also sympathise with the injured and pray for their speedy recovery,” he stated.
He said the thoughts of Nigerians were with the bereaved families, injured passengers receiving treatment, and survivors who might continue to grapple with the emotional and psychological effects of the tragedy.
Dafinone commended the prompt response of the Delta State Government, emergency responders, medical personnel, security agencies, railway officials and volunteers whose swift intervention helped save lives and provide critical assistance to passengers affected by the accident.
Describing the Ujevwu–Itakpe rail corridor as a strategic national asset, the lawmaker said the railway line serves thousands of passengers and supports economic activities across several states, making safety and operational efficiency non-negotiable.
According to him, the continued success of the rail service depends largely on public confidence in its safety and reliability.
The senator therefore urged relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, stressing that such a probe must establish the facts, identify any operational or technical lapses 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 said.
Dafinone also called on the Federal Ministry of Transportation, the Nigerian Railway Corporation and other relevant safety agencies to undertake a comprehensive review of safety and operational protocols not only along the Ujevwu–Itakpe corridor but across the country’s rail network.
He emphasized the need for regular maintenance, strict compliance with safety standards and robust emergency preparedness measures to safeguard passengers and railway personnel.
The senator further appealed for adequate medical care, counselling and support services for injured passengers and affected families to aid their recovery and ease the burden occasioned by the tragedy.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed souls and asked God to grant comfort to grieving families, healing to the injured and strength to all those affected by the unfortunate incident.
The statement was signed by Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, and dated June 9, 2026.
