Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Tragedy has again struck in Rivers State following a boat mishap along the Bonny-Port Harcourt Sea route, which claimed the lives of three persons, including a toddler.
Confirming the incident, the Bonny Local Government Council, said the incident occurred yesterday when a heavy storm hit a commercial boat conveying passengers from Port Harcourt to Bonny, destabilizing the boat and leading to a mishap.
Secretary to the Local Government, Mr. John Gabriel-Pepple, in a statement expressed deep sorrow over the incident and conveyed condolences to the bereaved families.
The Bonny Local Government reiterated its commitment to improving safety measures and ensuring justice for the victims of the mishap.
The statement reads, “The Bonny Local Government Council is deeply saddened by the tragic boat mishap that occurred on the Bonny-Port Harcourt sea-route on Sunday, January 19, 2025, claiming the lives of two adults and a toddler.
“Preliminary findings revealed that the tragedy was caused by a sudden oceanic storm that destabilized the boat, leading to the mishap. While 19 passengers survived the incident and were promptly taken for medical care at the expense of the Bonny Local Government, the Council described the loss of life as irreparable.
“We extend our sincerest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims. May God grant you all the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. The Council shares in this grief and pain, and we pray that the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace,” the statement continued.
The Council also criticized the reported refusal of a passenger boat to assist the victims of the mishap, urging members of the public with information about the boat operator to contact the Council Secretary via 08035085782.
“Sadly, information reaching the Council revealed that there was a passenger boat that met the scene of the incident but refused to stop to rescue the victims of the mishap while they were struggling to survive on the sea. Anybody with useful information about the particular boat driver should contact the Council Secretary,” the statement noted.
In addition, the Council advised travelers to avoid journeys during inclement weather and adhere to safety protocols to prevent future occurrences.
Meanwhile, the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre, YEAC-Nigeria has called for stricter enforcement of marine safety protocols by authorities, urging security agencies such as the Marine Police, NIMASA and NIWA to act.
Executive Director of YEAC-Nigeria, Dr. Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface, also renewed pressure on the federal government and Julius Berger to expedite the completion of the Bodo-Bonny Road, which is expected to provide a safer alternative for commuters traveling between Bonny Island and Port Harcourt.
“These incidents are avoidable with better safety measures and the completion of the Bodo-Bonny Road. The government must prioritize the safety of lives on this critical route,” Fyneface said.
