Three passengers were confirmed dead following the derailment of a train in Warri–Itakpe on Monday.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation, in a statement by its managing director and chief executive officer, Kayode Opeifa, said that emergency response teams and relevant authorities were deployed to the scene to assist affected passengers and assess the situation.

“The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) confirms that an incident involving the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) occurred today (Monday),” the statement said.

Mr Opeifa noted that the corporation would provide further details as investigations and rescue efforts continue.

While the cause of the accident remained unknown, the presidency described the derailment as serious in a statement on Monday, noting three fatalities.

“The Nigerian Railway Corporation has confirmed a serious train accident involving the Warri–Itakpe Train Service corridor at Agbor, Delta State. Rescue and emergency response operations were immediately activated. All passengers on board have now been accounted for.

“Sadly, three fatalities have been confirmed at this time. Relevant authorities continue to assess the full circumstances surrounding the incident, while support is being provided to affected passengers. The thoughts and prayers of all Nigerians are with the victims and their loved ones,” the statement said.

The development came over a month after the NRC temporarily suspended operations on the Warri-Itakpe rail to enable critical operational assessments aimed at ensuring continued safety, reliability, and improved service delivery along the corridor.