The Obi of Owa Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Obi Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor II (JP, OON), has called for a comprehensive investigation into the train accident that occurred four days ago in Owa-Oyibu, Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State, claiming four lives and leaving several others injured.

The monarch made the call during a visit to the scene of the incident, urging relevant government agencies to thoroughly examine both the immediate and underlying causes of the derailment.

Obi Efeizomor expressed concern over reports suggesting that the accident may have been linked to the activities of vandals who target railway infrastructure and other government assets. According to him, intelligence reports indicate that unidentified individuals often operate along the railway tracks at night, raising suspicions that the derailment could be connected to the actions of metal and iron thieves in the area.

He urged both the federal and Delta State governments to intensify efforts to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible for vandalizing public infrastructure.

The traditional ruler, who is the immediate past chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council and current chairman of the Delta North Traditional Rulers Forum, said a thorough investigation could provide vital clues regarding the activities of criminal elements operating within the community.

Obi Efeizomor also lamented what he described as growing insecurity in Owa Kingdom, citing cases of kidnapping, banditry, youth restiveness and other criminal activities.

He stressed the need for enhanced security measures to protect critical national assets and public infrastructure, noting that stronger surveillance and enforcement would help curb the activities of vandals and other criminal groups while restoring public confidence and safety.

The monarch disclosed that members of the Owa Community Vigilante Group have remained on high alert and continue to work closely with the police and other security agencies to safeguard lives and property in the area.

Clarification on Accident Location

The monarch also raised concerns over reports referring to the location of the railway station involved in the accident as being in Agbor.

He emphasized that Owa and Agbor are distinct autonomous kingdoms located in different local government areas of Delta State. According to him, Owa-Oyibu serves as the headquarters of Ika North East Local Government Area, while Agbor is the headquarters of Ika South Local Government Area.

Obi Efeizomor urged media organisations and the public to accurately identify the location of the railway station and avoid descriptions that could create confusion or misunderstanding between the two communities.

Condolences to Victims’ Families

The monarch extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident and prayed for the speedy recovery of those receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the incident.

Describing the tragedy as painful and devastating, he noted that the loss of lives was irreparable and urged authorities to provide adequate medical care for the injured.

He also called on relevant government agencies to take immediate steps to restore rail services in the area and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The train mishap has sparked renewed concerns about the security and maintenance of critical transportation infrastructure, with stakeholders calling for stronger protection of railway assets across the country.