The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has clarified that Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents Delta Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, and former Delta State Government Secretary, Hon. Patrick Ukah, were not passengers aboard the Warri–Itakpe Train Service involved in the recent accident near Agbor, Delta State.
The clarification comes amid reports that suggested both prominent Delta politicians were among those on board the train when the incident occurred.
In a statement by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, the corporation acknowledged that an earlier communication had erroneously linked the duo to the train service at the time of the accident.
According to the NRC, neither Senator Dafinone nor Ukah travelled on the train involved in the incident.
The corporation, however, commended both men for their significant contributions to the emergency response efforts that followed the accident.
“Both distinguished individuals rather greatly assisted in the mobilisation of first responders and other emergency personnel who participated in the rescue operations following the incident,” Opeifa stated.
He noted that their swift intervention and support helped strengthen rescue efforts and provided critical assistance during the emergency response operation.
The NRC expressed regret over the earlier error and extended its appreciation to the two Delta leaders for their public-spirited actions.
“The NRC regrets the unintended error and sincerely appreciates the selfless and swift intervention and support of these great Nigerians during the rescue efforts,” the statement added.
The clarification comes days after the train accident near Agbor sparked concerns among passengers, families and stakeholders, with emergency personnel and local volunteers working to provide assistance to those affected.
The corporation has continued to reassure the public of its commitment to passenger safety while cooperating with relevant authorities in ongoing efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
