By Victor Lewis
Following a motion moved onTuesday on the floor of the Red chamber, by Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, the Nigerian Senate has ordered an immediate investigation and rehabilitation of the Ujevwu–Itakpe rail corridor which was resuscitated recently only for the train to derail shortly after services have been restored.
Raising concerns on the Senate floor, Senator Dafinone decried the increasing cases of derailments, poor maintenance, and service suspensions along the corridor, describing the situation as a “serious threat” to the safety of passengers and the nation’s economic interests.
He warned that the deteriorating condition of the line — which links Ujevwu in Delta State to Itakpe in Kogi State — had caused untold hardship to commuters and disrupted the transportation of goods and industrial materials critical to national productivity.
“This corridor is a vital lifeline for the movement of people and resources between the South-South and North-Central regions,” Dafinone said. “We cannot afford to allow neglect or poor maintenance to compromise public safety and national development. I therefore call for an urgent investigation, full rehabilitation, and stronger safety measures to safeguard this infrastructure.”
The Delta lawmaker also urged the Federal Government to extend the rail line from Itakpe to Abuja, saying such expansion would strengthen national connectivity, boost commerce, and ease logistics pressure on road transport. He further called for improved maintenance systems and the expansion of the operational fleet to meet rising passenger and cargo demands.
After extensive deliberations, the Senate unanimously adopted the motion and directed relevant committees to ensure immediate repairs of vandalised sections, conduct a comprehensive review of the nation’s rail infrastructure, and consider the proposed Itakpe–Abuja extension.
In his closing remarks, Senator Dafinone reaffirmed that the resolution underscores the Senate’s resolve to promote “a safer, modern, and efficient rail network” that supports economic growth and regional integration.
“A reliable railway system remains central to our nation’s industrial future,” he said. “This motion is about protecting lives, rebuilding confidence in public transport, and unlocking the full potential of our economy.”
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