Lives Lost, In A Boat Sinking Incident In Bayelsa

Many people were believed to have died, as fire burnt and sank a boat.

This happened between Ekeni and Ukubie communities in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. At about 5.30am on Wednesday, August 7.

Chairman of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Bayelsa State Chapter, Ipigansi Ogoniba. Had said on Thursday, August 8.

That the boat was carrying about 64 people at the time of the incident. But several persons swam to safety.

Ogoniba said it would be difficult to list the exact number of those who died or survived. Because he has not received reports from boats and local divers. Who are engaged in ongoing rescue efforts.

The Yenagoa bound boat usually carries traders. Who ply their wares from one riverine market to the other and returned to Yenagoa. In time for Monday and Thursday, the market days of the Swali Ultra Mo dern Market.

It is not immediately clear what caused the incident. But it is believed that it started from improper handling of petrol close to the onboard engine.

Ogoniba said, “If anybody says that 18 or 20 people died, they will be lying because we cannot say for now how many people died or survived.”

“The boat carries about 64 people. And also, loads like garri, beans and rice. It moves from community to community where the traders sell their goods. And return on Sunday or Wednesday to meet the market here.”

“On the return journey, it carries people from town to town. Many people join the local boat because it is cheap. Compared to a speedboat where you pay N12,000 from Ezetu to Yenagoa.”

The chairperson of Association of Coastal and Waterways Communities of Nigeria, Bayelsa State, Odede Denikpete Tina. Blamed the incident on the refusal of boat operators in the state to observe safety regulations such as putting on of life jackets.

Odede, said she’s also pleased with the state government effort. In connecting more riverine communities by road. So as to minimise the need for water transport.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Musa Mohammed, said the local boat was travelling from Ekeni to Yenagoa. When the incident took place, which claimed about 20 lives. Mohammed said rescue efforts were ongoing at the scene of the incident.