The Obi of Owa Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Obi Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor II, JP, OON, has called for a thorough investigation into the immediate and underlying causes of the train derailment that occurred four days ago at Owa-Oyibu in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State, resulting in the loss of four lives and injuries to several passengers.
The revered monarch made the call during a visit to the scene of the tragic incident, where he urged relevant government authorities and security agencies to unravel the circumstances surrounding the accident and identify those responsible for any acts of sabotage.
Obi Efeizomor expressed concern over intelligence reports indicating that suspected vandals frequently operate along the railway corridor at night, allegedly removing metal components and other critical infrastructure.
He suggested that such criminal activities may have contributed to the derailment and should form a key aspect of the investigation.
According to the monarch, efforts must be intensified by both the Federal and Delta State Governments to track down and prosecute individuals involved in the vandalism of public assets, particularly critical national 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, lamented the growing security challenges confronting Owa Kingdom, including kidnapping, banditry, youth restiveness and other criminal activities.
“A comprehensive investigation into the train accident may provide useful clues regarding the activities of metal and railway infrastructure vandals operating within the area,” the monarch stated.
He stressed the need for enhanced security around government facilities and strategic national assets, noting that stronger surveillance and enforcement measures would help curb criminal activities and restore public confidence.
Obi Efeizomor commended members of the Owa Community Vigilante Group for their efforts in supporting the police and other security agencies in safeguarding lives and property within the kingdom.
The monarch also expressed displeasure over what he described as the persistent misidentification of the Owa Railway Station as being located in Agbor.
He clarified that Owa and Agbor are distinct autonomous kingdoms situated in separate local government areas.
He explained that Owa-Oyibu serves as the headquarters of Ika North East Local Government Area, while Agbor is the administrative headquarters of Ika South Local Government Area.
He urged media organisations and members of the public to take note of the distinction in future reports.
Obi Efeizomor extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured victims receiving medical treatment.
Describing the incident as tragic and heartbreaking, the monarch said the loss of lives was irreparable and urged authorities to provide adequate medical care for the injured while taking immediate steps to restore rail services in the affected area.
He further called on relevant government agencies to ensure that all necessary safety measures are implemented to prevent a recurrence of such incidents and guarantee the protection of passengers and railway infrastructure.
