- Tragedy on Lagos Waterways: Six Passengers Die, Four Survive Boat Mishap
- Rescue operations were activated immediately upon receiving a distress alert
- Stressed the importance of strict compliance with safety regulations
At least six passengers have been confirmed dead and four rescued following a boat accident along the Nigerdock axis of the Igbologun Water Channel in Lagos.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the incident, involving a savvy marine passenger boat, occurred on Tuesday at approximately 8:35 p.m. while the vessel was en route from the Ilashe Beach House, according to a joint statement released Wednesday by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).
EDITOR’S PICK
- Childhood Friend Allegedly Kills Europe-based Returnee in Edo Community
- NJC Screens Out 34 Judge Nominees Over Integrity Issues
- FG Says Sokoto Security Operation Strengthens Economy
The statement, signed by Wuraola Alake, Head of the Public Affairs Unit at LASWA, and Omowunmi Yussuff, Head of the Corporate Affairs Unit at NIWA Lagos, explained that rescue operations were activated immediately upon receiving a distress alert. The teams worked in close collaboration with the Marine Police and other first responders.
“As of the time of this report, four passengers have been successfully rescued and transported to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving medical attention. Sadly, six other passengers were found dead at the scene. Search and rescue operations remain ongoing to account for all persons involved,” the statement read.
Preliminary findings suggest that the accident may have been caused by a collision with a submerged object, although further investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause.
The agencies assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted and extended their deepest condolences to the families of the victims.
They also stressed the importance of strict compliance with safety regulations, including proper navigation practices and adherence to the night travel rule. Members of the public were urged to rely only on verified information from LASWA, NIWA, and other official sources.
In December, both authorities had launched a festive-season safety campaign to protect travellers during periods of heavy water traffic. The campaign emphasises the use of life jackets, maintaining passenger manifests, avoiding night trips, and conducting routine vessel checks. Joint search and rescue teams and intensified patrols were also deployed to deter unsafe practices and enhance surveillance on key waterways.
FURTHER READING
- Orijeru of Igbooye Confers Jagunoba, Yeye Jagunoba, Gbobaniyi Titles at Coronation Anniversary
- NELFUND Reduces Tertiary School Dropout — Board Member
- Insecurity Worsening Impact on Women, Children — Funmi Falana
Click here to watch video of the week
