BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) says it has retrieved critical evidence and completed major on-site investigative activities as its probe into the Warri–Itakpe train derailment of June 8, 2026, gathers momentum.
The accident, which occurred along the Warri–Itakpe rail corridor, triggered a coordinated response involving the NSIB, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), and the Federal Ministry of Transportation, with officials moving swiftly to the scene to commence investigations.
According to the Spokesperson of the Bureau, Mrs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, the
Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., led the investigative team to the site alongside the NRC Managing Director, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, and the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Engineer Funsho Adebiyi.
She added that at the scene, investigators documented the derailment site, examined damaged rail equipment and infrastructure, and gathered operational and technical data.
The team also interviewed relevant personnel connected to the train’s operation while collecting maintenance records, witness accounts, and other key materials now set for detailed analysis.
Captain Badeh, she noted, described the incident as tragic and extended condolences to victims and their families, assuring that the Bureau would rely strictly on evidence in its findings.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families who have lost loved ones… We will follow the facts wherever they lead and generate actionable safety recommendations,” he said.
As part of the visit, he also met with injured passengers and families of victims, offering support and reassurance. He visited medical facilities where some of the injured are receiving treatment.
The NSIB said it is working closely with relevant agencies, including the NRC and the Federal Ministry of Health, noting that the Nigeria Air Force also supported logistics and access during the field investigation.
It stressed that the investigation is safety-focused and non-punitive, aimed at identifying causal and contributing factors rather than apportioning blame.
The Bureau added that a full report will be released after analysis is completed, along with safety recommendations to prevent future rail incidents.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
