The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has clarified that Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, and former Delta State Secretary to the Government, Hon. Patrick Ukah, were not passengers on the train involved in the accident near Agbor.
In a corrective statement issued on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, and signed by the NRC’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, the corporation withdrew its earlier claim that the two men were aboard the ill-fated Warri-Itakpe Train Service.
“The Nigerian Railway Corporation wishes to clarify that, contrary to an earlier statement, Senator Ede Dafinone and Hon. Patrick Ukah were not passengers on board the train involved in the accident near Agbor,” Opeifa said.
He added that both men were rather at the scene to assist in the rescue operation.
“Both distinguished individuals greatly assisted in the mobilisation of first responders and other emergency personnel who participated in the rescue operations following the incident,” the statement read.
The NRC apologised for the error in its initial release and commended Dafinone and Ukah for their swift intervention.
“The NRC regrets the embarrassment the error has caused these eminent Nigerians and sincerely appreciates their selfless and swift intervention and support during the rescue efforts,” Opeifa stated.