The Senate has launched an investigation into the increasing number of train derailments across the country, setting up an ad hoc committee to determine the root causes and assess the condition of Nigeria’s rail infrastructure.
The committee, to be chaired by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has been given six weeks to complete its work and submit a comprehensive report to the Senate. It will also examine the quality of materials used in the construction of rail lines, as well as loans secured from China for railway projects.
Lawmakers further directed the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to urgently address the technical issues responsible for recent derailments and restore full operational safety on all routes.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent national importance moved by Senator Ede Dafinone, who cited the derailment of the Ujevwu-Itakpe train line and called for an immediate probe and rehabilitation of affected sections.
The latest Warri-Itakpe train derailment occurred in Agbor, Delta State, just four days after the route resumed operations. The NRC said the incident, which involved two of the seven coaches, happened around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and was likely caused by vandals.
In a statement, NRC Managing Director Kayode Opeifa confirmed that no lives were lost.
“All passengers on board were safely evacuated to Agbor and fully accounted for. Our recovery team, supported by security personnel, has been on-site carrying out recovery operations, which are progressing steadily,” Opeifa said.
The Senate’s investigation comes amid growing public concern over repeated train accidents nationwide, including the Abuja-Kaduna line, which has recorded two derailments at the same station within 13 months.
