NRC suspends Warri-Itakpe operations as train derails

By Abiodun OBA

The Warri-Itakpe Train Services, WITS, have been suspended as a result of a derailment at the Ajaokuta station on Monday.

The WITS resumed operations Monday, April 24, 2023, after the suspension of train services on the corridor when 148 passengers and 38 crew members of a train plying the Warri-Itakpe route escaped death as a result of a derailment inside the Kogi forest in January 2023.

However, a statement on Tuesday by the Management, Nigerian Railway Corporation, on Tuesday, noted that it is working diligently to address the situation at the derailment site and initiate the necessary repairs to get the derailed locomotive back on track, adding that the train schedule for today (Tuesday) will not be running.

The statement reads, “Our highly esteemed passengers, we are sad to let you know that due to the derailment of our passenger’s train (WITS 01) yesterday (Monday) at Ajaokuta station our train schedule for today will not run.

“We are very sorry for any inconvenience this might have caused.

“Work on the derailment site in order the fix the derailed locomotive back to track will commence today.

“Therefore, no movement today, further communication on the commencement of operations will be promptly communicated.

“We regret the hardship this might have caused you as you take other alternatives.”