22 July 2014, Lagos – The panel of inquiry into the cause of fire incidents, which involved Barge S. 215 at the MRS Jetty, Tincan Island, Lagos and MT African Hyacinth at Okolo Launch/Bonny-Kalibiama, Rivers State, have submitted their findings to the Minister of Transport, Alhaji Idris Umar.
Making the presentation in Abuja recently at the Minister’s office, the president of the marine board of inquiry, Babayo Ubamatu, of the Gombe State Judiciary said the board conducted investigations at the two affected states.
In his words: “The board held public sittings at two locations, Lagos and Port Harcourt based on the proximity to the scene of incidents. During the board’s sitting in Lagos, a total of 27 witnesses testified and 42 exhibits were admitted in evidence with respect to Barge S.215.
“On the other hand a total of 17 witnesses testified and three exhibits were admitted in respect of MT African Hyacinth during the board’s public sitting in Port Harcourt.”
Ubamuta-led board submitted copies of the main report, copies of the record of proceedings and copies of letters issued and received by the board and exhibits tendered to the Minister, who was represented at the event by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Nebolisa Emordi.
Emordi, while receiving the report, promised the Ministry’s resolve to look critically into it and take necessary action.
– This Day
