NRC Reopens Warri–Itakpe Rail Line After Arrest of Track Vandals

Train operations on the Warri–Itakpe route will restart on Wednesday, following days of repairs and a safety assessment triggered by a derailment over the weekend. The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) confirmed that engineers realigned the affected section near Agbor, clearing the corridor for full service.

Investigations into the derailment led security operatives to Kilometer 208 in Abraka, Delta State, where two men Mudansuru Mutari, 27, and Blorie Kokori, 39 were arrested. Authorities allege the pair removed key rail fasteners and clips, an action believed to have caused the incident.

NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, condemned the vandalism and said those responsible would be prosecuted. He added that surveillance has been reinforced across the corridor and that security collaboration with communities is being expanded to protect the rail network.

The Corporation thanked passengers for their patience during the suspension and assured the public that safety and reliability remain central as services resume on November 5, 2025.