By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has clarified that Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, and former Secretary to the Delta State Government, Hon. Patrick Ukah, were not among the passengers on board the Warri–Itakpe Train Service that was involved in an accident near Agbor, Delta State.
In a statement issued by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, the corporation explained that an earlier communication suggesting that the two prominent Delta leaders were passengers on the train was inaccurate.
According to the statement, Senator Dafinone and Hon. Ukah were not victims of the incident but played significant roles in coordinating and mobilizing emergency response efforts immediately after the accident occurred.
The NRC noted that both men assisted in facilitating the prompt deployment of first responders and other emergency personnel who participated in the rescue operation, contributing to the swift response that helped manage the situation.
“The Nigerian Railway Corporation wishes to clarify that contrary to an earlier statement, Senator Ede Dafinone and former Secretary to the Delta State Government, Hon. Patrick Ukah, were not passengers on board the Warri–Itakpe Train Service involved in the accident near Agbor,” the statement read.
The corporation expressed regret over the error and extended its appreciation to the two leaders for their timely intervention and support during the rescue efforts.
“The NRC regrets the unintended error and sincerely appreciates the selfless and swift intervention and support of these great Nigerians during the rescue efforts,” Dr. Opeifa stated.
The clarification comes amid widespread public interest in the train accident, which drew attention from government officials, emergency agencies, and concerned citizens across the country.
The NRC reiterated its commitment to providing accurate information to the public while continuing efforts to ensure the safety and efficiency of railway operations nationwide.