In a heartfelt response to the devastating boat accident in Andoni-Bonny waterway on Tuesday, Governor Siminalayi Fubara expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the affected families and the Andoni Local Government Area.
As gathered by Quest Times, the tragic incident involving a wooden cargo boat, claimed the lives of approximately 20 individuals, including four children.
Governor Fubara, through his media aide Boniface Onyedi, assured the community of ongoing efforts to enhance safety on sea routes.
He stated, “As a government, we will continue to work to ensure that such threats against safe travelling on our sea routes are tackled.”
Contrary to earlier reports, the Rivers State Police Command disputed the casualty count, confirming 11 deaths.
The wooden boat, powered by a single 25HP Yamaha engine, sank near Amariaria community in Finima town on January 8, 2024, at 8 pm.
It was also learned that investigations are underway, as the Officer in-Change of Marine, SP Ogarachi Chima, leads efforts to uncover the cause of the tragic incident.
One grieving victim, Pastor Promise Festus from Ngo Town, Andoni, pleaded for assistance from Governor Fubara and LGA chairman Chief Erastus Awortu.
“I want the state government and Andoni Local Government to assist me. To forgive any sin that I committed and assist me,” he stated while sobbing uncontrollably,” he stated.
In a heartbreaking video, Pastor Festus revealed the loss of his five children in the accident and the dire situation he now faces.
Moreover, the Chairman of Andoni LGA, Awortu, confirmed the accident and dispatched a rescue team, rescuing some individuals.
Awortu expressed condolences to the affected families, pledging to cover the medical bills of those rescued.
He urged residents to avoid night journeys on the sea and emphasized the importance of boat operators adhering to safety regulations.