NRC suspends Warri-Itakpe train services over engine failure

Agency Report

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) on Thursday disclosed it has temporarily suspended the train services on the Warri-Itakpe rail line corridor for 72 hours following the significant disruption that occurred on Tuesday, April 9, due to multiple technical issues involving a train engine failure.

The disruption to the service had commenced at approximately 1:38 pm and affected both the morning pm departure from Warri and the 2:00 pm return journey from Itakpe whilst emergency recovery protocols were immediately activated but it also suffered a setback due to engine failures.

The NRC disclosed that following the incident, arrangement was swiftly made for the safe evacuation of all passengers via road transport with adequate security presence.

Investigations showed that passengers were guided off the affected train to waiting cars approximately 500 meters from the track while some chose to arrange their own transportation before the arrival of official recovery vehicles.

Responding to the development, the management explained that “In view of the situation, the NRC has suspended operations on the Warri-ltakpe route for 72 hours. This pause will allow our technical team to conduct a full audit, resolve al identified issues, and restore safe and reliable service.”

It said “All passengers with tickets for the affected services are eligible for a full refund or re-validation for future travel, based on their preference.”