One passenger is feared dead as a speed boat capsized in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The speed boat was said to be travelling from Lobia in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area to Yenagoa when the unfortunate incident happened on Saturday, August 24, 2024.
According to reports, there were 15 passengers on board when the incident occurred. One passenger drowned while the 14 others were rescued by concerned citizens.
The Bayelsa State Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy said the accident occurred between Lobia and Ukubie communities in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. In spite of sustained government announcement on the need to be safety conscious, many of the passengers were without life vests.
A statement signed by the Commissioner of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin said the boat collided with a tree trunk and immediately capsized.
Mrs Zibs-Godwin in the statement, said "With a deep sense of sadness, we report yet another tragic river incident. At noon on Saturday, August 24, 2024, a speedboat, John W Marine, traveling to Yenagoa from Lobia in the Southern Ijaw Local Government area collided with a tree trunk and immediately capsized between Lobia and Ukubie communities. Fifteen passengers were on board with many without life vests; fourteen were rescued, but one passenger drowned and remains missing. Our rescue teams are actively searching for the body".
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The statement further said "the loss of life is regrettable, avoidable, and unacceptable, adding that safety must be our priority at all times".
The Commissioner hinted that the Prosperity Administration of Governor Douye Diri, has initiated plans to establish a Joint Task Force on Maritime Safety to enhance safety protocols and prevent future occurrences.
The statement sought the urgent support of local council chairmen and NGOs in advocating for compliance with maritime safety regulations just as it called on paramount rulers, community heads, and community Development Committees (CDCs) to emphasize the importance of using life jackets while aboard River crafts.
The statement further called on the people of Bayelsa, particularly stakeholders to unite for safety and vigilance to prevent future occurrences.
It will be recalled that only recently there was a boat mishap around Ezetu axis of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, where more than 15 persons, mainly traders, died.
