By Chiazo Ogbolu
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) temporarily suspended the Warri-Itakpe train service, noting that it would last 72 hours.
The Managing Director of the NRC, Dr Kayode Opaifa, said this in a statement issued by Ms Henrietta Eregare of the corporation’s Public Relations Department to journalists in Lagos on Thursday.
“We wish to inform the general public and our valued passengers that a significant disruption occurred on the Warri-Itakpe rail line on Tuesday, April 8, due to multiple technical issues involving a train engine failure. Management has consequently suspended train services on the route for 72 hours.
“The disruption commenced at approximately 1.38 p.m. and affected the 8.00 a.m. departure from Warri and the 2.00 p.m. train from Itakpe. Emergency recovery protocols were immediately activated, but also suffered a setback due to engine failures,” he said.
Opeifa noted that following the incident, NRC swiftly arranged for the safe evacuation of all passengers via road transport with adequate security presence.
“Passengers were guided off the affected train to waiting cars, approximately 500 meters from the track. Some passengers chose to arrange their transportation before the arrival of official recovery vehicles, a decision NRC understands, given the delay,” he said.
According to him, given the situation, the NRC has suspended operations on the Warri-Itakpe route for 72 hours.
He added that this pause would allow the NRC technical team to conduct a full audit, resolve all identified issues and restore safe and reliable service.
“All passengers with tickets for the affected services are eligible for a full refund or revalidation for future travel, based on their preference.
“Detailed information on the refund and revalidation process is available on our online ticketing platforms, via our customer service lines and at all NRC stations.
“We deeply regret the inconveniences caused by this unexpected disruption. The NRC takes full responsibility and actively works to restore normal operations as quickly as possible.
“We remain committed to the safety, reliability and comfort of our passengers, and we sincerely appreciate the patience, understanding and continued support of the public during this time,” he said.
