NRC Identifies Causes of Warri-Itakpe Train Accident

On June 8, 2026, a train accident occurred on the Warri-Itakpe route at Kilometre 177, Owa Oyibu, Delta State, involving a train operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC). A preliminary report indicated that a sudden development of a bogie/wheel defect and sudden brake application were likely causes of the derailment.

The train, which departed Itakpe at 12:00 noon, was carrying 482 individuals, including 442 passengers and 40 operational personnel. The incident affected five coaches, one locomotive, and a power car, with three coaches and the power car overturning.

Emergency response operations were initiated, with support from various agencies, and all passengers were evacuated within two hours. The accident resulted in four confirmed fatalities (three adults and one child) and 64 injuries, with 28 passengers treated and discharged at the Railway Hospital, while others were taken to local general hospitals.

The NRC is cooperating with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau for further investigation.