About 24 hours after the tragic boat mishap in the Southern Ijaw waterways of Bayelsa State, the exact casualty figures remain uncertain, although some eye witnesses told TNN that up to 20 lives may have been lost so far, even as the governor, Senator Douye Diri has expressed concern and sadness over the incident.
The accident happened around the Ezeti 1 community. As at Thursday, rescues operations were in progress, with the governor extending condolence to the bereaved families and directing the relevant ministries to immediately join the rescue efforts.
The governor said investigation will be conducted into the cause of the accident and urged boat operators to always observe safety procedures on the state’s waterways.
He said: “The news of another tragic boat accident in our state was shocking and sad. On behalf of the state government, I extend my deepest condolences to families of victims.
“Upon hearing the news of the tragedy, I immediately directed the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and other relevant government organs to dispatch their teams to the river point to join the rescue efforts.
“This is yet one boat accident too many and the state government will take measures to avert such avoidable tragedy going forward. We will investigate the cause(s) of this mishap.
“I again implore boat operators in the state to ensure they observe proper safety procedures at all times in order to make our waterways safer.”
Early in the day, the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin had visited the Swali Waterfront to discuss with stakeholders including boat operators, fishermen, traders, commuters, and local authorities on modalities for recovery of bodies possible ways of avoiding future occurrences of possible recurrence of such incidents
During the visit, the commissioner expressed condolences to the families of the victims and assured them of government’s commitment to ensuring safety of lives and properties on the waterways.
“We are here to learn from this unfortunate incident and take necessary steps to prevent future occurrences,” the commissioner said. The commissioner also held a meeting with stakeholders to discuss ways to enhance safety measures, including the use of life jackets, regular maintenance of boats, and adherence to safety regulations.
