Report reveals causes of Warri—ltakpe Train Service (WITS) incident

An investigation into the causes of the Warri—ltakpe Train Service (WITS) incident on 8 June 2026 at approximately 16:17 hours has revealed that the train could have suddenly developed a bogie/wheel defect while en route and led to the incident.

The investigation also noted that the possible manner of brake application might have contributed to the severity of the outcome of the incident.

This development was contained in a preliminary report on the incident as released by the management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), pointing out that these remain working hypotheses only as the definitive cause or causes of the accident will be determined through comprehensive analysis and will be set out in the final report.

The preliminary report, signed by the NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, reads thus:

Based on the internal investigation carried out by the NRC inquiry team, preliminary observations indicate the possible sudden development of a bogie/wheel defect while en route. This observation is being investigated further as a potential primary factor in the derailment. A wheel defect of this nature may have generated abnormal wheel-rail interaction, excessive impact loading, and loss of running stability.

The investigation also noted that the possible manner of brake application may have contributed to the severity of the outcome. These remain working hypotheses only. The definitive cause or causes of the accident will be determined through comprehensive analysis and will be set out in the final report.

It is important to note that site examination by the inquiry team observed that the points were intact and that no evidence of track vandalism was found. This differs from the accidents that occurred on the same service (WITS) on 1 November 2025 and 8 November 2025, which were attributed to track vandalism.

In line with statutory requirements, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an independent investigation. The Nigerian Railway Corporation is fully cooperating with the NSIB investigation and will be guided by its findings and recommendations. The NSIB final report remains pending.

Based on the findings and observations made during the internal investigation, the following corrective and preventive measures are recommended:

1. Strengthen Rolling Stock and Infrastructure Management — Conduct comprehensive inspections and safety audits of all rolling stock, fracks, and railway infrastructure across all operational corridors before equipment is returned to service. Enhanced maintenance and condition-monitoring programmes, timely replacement of defective components, and adequate availability of critical spare parts should support this. Continued investment in modem rolling stock and railway infrastructure should also be prioritised.

2. Review and Strengthen Operational Safety Procedures — Review existing operational procedures and replace obsolete practices with updated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Strengthen operational safety compliance, monitoring, and enforcement to ensure adherence to established safety standards across the railway system.

3. Enhance Emergency Preparedness and Response — Improve emergency preparedness through regular drills, enhanced rescue capabilities, strengthened coordination among all emergency response agencies, and improved passenger emergency awareness and communication systems to ensure an effective and coordinated response during railway emergencies.

4. Strengthen Human Capacity Development Enhance staff competency through continuous professional development, comprehensive training in accident prevention and emergency management, and periodic competency assessments to ensure personnel possess the knowledge and skills required to operate safely and efficiently.

5. Provide Sustainable Funding for Railway Modernisation Ensure adequate and sustainable funding to support the ongoing transformation of the railway sector, optimise existing railway assets, and facilitate the development of new infrastructure and services to sustain long-term operations.

6. Strengthen Passenger and Staff Welfare Protection Review and enhance the Corporation’s insurance and compensation framework to ensure adequate coverage for medical treatment, disability support, and compensation for fatalities, thereby demonstrating the Corporation’s commitment to the welfare of passengers and staff.

Appreciating the patience and understanding of Nigerians who have waited for this preliminary report, the Corporation said the reason for the delay was that the incident recorded fatalities, and efforts were taken painstakingly to ensure that every relation of those involved was duly informed through the structured medical and victim support procedure.

“The NRC deeply regrets this tragic incident and extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. NRC is committed to implementing all recommendations arising from both the NRC Accident Enquiry Team (internal review) and the independent NSIB investigation.

“The Corporation’s priority is to strengthen railway safety, improve operational resilience, and restore public confidence in rail transportation.

“At this time, the track has been fully recovered and restored. The locomotives have been recovered and are undergoing reconditioning before any resumption of operations. Resumption of service will be dependent on the completion of a detailed track and equipment safety audit,” said the report.