Despite the train derailment in Ujewhu near Abraka, Delta State, along the long Intake/Warri rail corridor, the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali, has assured the public that their safety and security are of utmost importance to the government.
In a press statement signed by himself over the weekend, the Minister indicated that all efforts are being made to prevent such occurrences and ensure the implementation of all necessary safety measures for smooth operations during each journey.
“My attention has been drawn to the widely-circulated reports of the derailment of some coaches of a scheduled train service operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) between Itakpe, Kogi State, and Warri in Delta State, which happened on Thursday, 4th July 2024.
Upon receipt of the news of this unfortunate incident and inquiries made, my observation is that the incident did not result in any fatalities. The incident occurred at Ujewhu near Abraka in Delta State at about 7:15 pm on Thursday.
I have directed the NRC, as the operator, to immediately ensure the safety and welfare of all passengers on board the train, ensure the evacuation of the distressed coaches from the tracks to guarantee the resumption of services as soon as possible, and produce a comprehensive report of the incident for my consideration. I have also been assured that the NRC has commenced steps in the above direction, and all indications point to the fact that normalcy is gradually being restored on the service.
I further express my candid sympathy with all persons who were on board the train at the time of the incident and wish to assure the general public, particularly those patronizing the train services, of their safety and welfare. The recent incidents involving our trains are currently being addressed through proactive measures, given the discovery that a significant number of such incidents were the direct result of vandalism and criminality along the rail tracks by deviants who do not wish our country well.
I also direct that all stakeholders in safe and secure operations in the railway industry should immediately put their best foot forward for continuous service to our people and our dear motherland.”
