National News – Three persons have been confirmed dead, while no fewer than 35 others sustained injuries following the derailment of the Warri-Itakpe passenger train in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The tragic incident occurred on Monday after four coaches reportedly veered off the track, throwing passengers into panic and triggering an emergency rescue operation.

Although the exact cause of the accident had yet to be determined as of press time, security personnel, emergency responders and local residents quickly mobilised to rescue trapped passengers and evacuate the injured to nearby medical facilities.

Chairman of Ika North-East Local Government Area, Mr. Monday Odigwe, disclosed that the injured victims were receiving treatment across three hospitals in the area. According to him, 13 passengers were admitted to the Central Hospital, Agbor, 12 to the General Hospital, Owa-Oyibu, while 10 others were taken to the General Hospital, Owa-Alero.

Odigwe added that authorities had assured the council that efforts would be made to recover and reposition the affected train coaches on Tuesday.

Reacting to the incident, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, described the accident as heartbreaking and unfortunate. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor sympathised with the families of those who lost their lives and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

He noted that the loss of lives was a painful tragedy for the affected families and the state, assuring residents that the government had promptly mobilised relevant agencies to the scene to provide assistance and coordinate emergency response efforts.

The governor also directed the Commissioner for Special Duties, alongside the chairmen of Ika South and Ika North-East Local Government Areas, to oversee rescue operations and ensure adequate support for the victims.