The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has recovered major evidence from the scene of Monday's train derailment along the Warri-Itakpe rail corridor. The bureau also stated that it has intensified efforts to determine both the immediate and remote causes of the accident.
Evidence Recovery and On-Site Activities
In a statement released yesterday, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, confirmed that the bureau is completing major on-site activities and gathering vital operational and technical information. The statement indicated that the bureau has documented the accident scene, examined damaged rail equipment and infrastructure, reviewed operational procedures, and conducted interviews with personnel involved in the train's operation.
According to Adebayo-Arowojobe, evidence collected from witness accounts, operational records, maintenance documents, and other sources will undergo detailed analysis by specialists. This analysis aims to establish the circumstances surrounding the derailment.
Condolences and Investigation Assurance
The statement quoted the Director-General of NSIB, Alex Badeh Jnr., as expressing condolences to the victims and their families. Badeh assured the public that the investigation would be thorough, independent, and evidence-driven. He added that the bureau would follow all available evidence and issue safety recommendations to address identified risks and prevent similar incidents on the nation's railway network.
Collaboration with Agencies
The NSIB said it is working closely with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), the Federal Ministry of Transportation, the Federal Ministry of Health, and other relevant federal and state agencies throughout the investigation process. The bureau also acknowledged the support received from the NRC, the Federal Ministry of Transportation, and the Nigerian Air Force, noting that their assistance facilitated the rapid deployment of investigators and access to operational facilities and information required for the inquiry.
Investigation Purpose
Reiterating the purpose of the investigation, the NSIB stressed that its role is focused solely on improving transportation safety and not on assigning blame or determining legal liability. “The objective is to establish what happened, identify causal and contributing factors, and recommend measures that will enhance the safety of railway operations in Nigeria,” Badeh said.
Final Report and Updates
The agency stated that a final report containing its findings and safety recommendations will be released upon completion of the investigation. The NSIB said further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Casualties and Incident Details
As of yesterday, at least five persons have died from the accident, while about 40 persons sustained injuries. Approximately 25 of the injuries were classified as serious traumatic injuries. No fewer than 482 persons, including 442 passengers, were on board the train at the time of the accident.
