Senator Dafinone Mourns Agbor Train Crash Victims, Demands Urgent Rail Safety Reforms

Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic accident involving the Warri Itakpe Train Service near Agbor, Delta State, which claimed lives and left several passengers injured.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Senator Dafinone described the incident as heartbreaking and extended his condolences to the families of the victims, while praying for the speedy recovery of those injured in the crash.

According to him, although the Nigerian Railway Corporation confirmed that three passengers lost their lives and all passengers were accounted for, the loss of any life remains a painful tragedy that should not be overlooked.

“My heartfelt condolences go to the families of those who lost their lives in this devastating incident. Every life lost is one too many, and the pain of the affected families is immeasurable,” the senator stated.

He noted that the tragedy has left many families grieving and survivors dealing with the emotional consequences of the incident, stressing that Deltans and Nigerians alike share in their pain and stand in solidarity with them during this difficult period.

The lawmaker commended the prompt response of the Delta State Government, emergency responders, medical personnel, security agencies, railway officials, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to rescue passengers and provide immediate assistance following the accident.

Senator Dafinone described the Warri Itakpe rail corridor as a critical national infrastructure that serves thousands of passengers and supports economic activities across several states. He warned that maintaining public confidence in the railway system requires unwavering commitment to safety and operational excellence.

He therefore called for a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

According to him, the inquiry should establish the exact cause of the accident, identify any operational or technical lapses, and recommend practical measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

“The affected families deserve answers, and the public deserves reassurance that every lesson from this tragedy will be acted upon,” he said.

The senator also urged the Federal Ministry of Transportation, the Nigerian Railway Corporation, and relevant safety agencies to conduct a comprehensive review of safety standards and operational procedures across the national rail network, particularly along the Warri Itakpe route.

He emphasized the need for regular maintenance of rail infrastructure, strict compliance with safety regulations, and improved emergency preparedness to safeguard passengers.

In addition, Dafinone called for adequate medical treatment, counselling services, and other forms of support for injured passengers and affected families to help them recover from the physical and emotional impact of the tragedy.

He concluded by praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and asking God to grant comfort to the bereaved families, healing to the injured, and strength to everyone affected by the unfortunate incident.

The Warri Itakpe Train Service remains one of Nigeria’s most important rail corridors, linking communities and facilitating economic activities across the region. The latest tragedy has renewed calls for enhanced safety measures and greater investment in rail infrastructure to protect lives and sustain public confidence in the nation’s railway system.