The Nigerian Railway Corporation has apologised for wrongly saying Ede Dafinone and a former secretary to the Delta state government, Patrick Ukah, were aboard its train, which derailed on the Warri–Itakpe corridor on Monday.

NRC’s managing director, Kayode Opeifa, tendered the apology in a statement on Tuesday.

The fatal train derailment, which occurred near Agbor in Delta, killed four people.

Mr Opeifa said that earlier information that Messrs Dafinone and Ukah were aboard the trainwas incorrect.

“The NRC, however, commended both individuals for their significant role in mobilising first responders and emergency personnel who participated in the rescue operations following the incident.

“The corporation expresses regret over the error and any embarrassment it may have caused, while appreciating their swift and selfless support during the rescue efforts,” Mr Opeifa said.

“Notable individuals on board include the senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, and a former secretary to the Delta State government, Mr Patrick Ukah,” said the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transport, Funsho Adebiyi, in an earlier statement on Tuesday.