A fatal boat accident along the Onyoma–Ekowe waterway in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State has resulted in the death of one passenger. Local operators and members of the maritime union identified the victim as Mr Luke Wonamah, a native of Okanga community in Iyala Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Witnesses reported that the vessel, which was said to be overloaded, departed Onyoma last Thursday and capsized around 2 p.m. The deceased, a still photographer contracted to cover a burial ceremony, was thrown into the water during the incident and drowned before help could reach him.
Confirming the tragedy, the Chairman of the Nigerian Maritime Workers Union in Bayelsa State, Ogoniba Ipigansi, restated the need for strict compliance with maritime safety procedures. He explained that the boat ignored approved loading points and bypassed basic safety rules, including the provision of life jackets. He said beach masters at the nearby jetty responded promptly, rescuing the remaining passengers and recovering the body after an intensified search.
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Ipigansi stressed that many accidents could be avoided if operators adhered to established safety standards and resisted the urge to cut corners. He warned that continued disregard for safety protocols would lead to recurring loss of lives on the state’s waterways.
The Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government Council, Hon. Target Isaiah Segibo, condemned the growing trend of marine operators ignoring government regulations. In a statement issued by his Press Secretary, Ayebaitari Easterday, he directed security agencies to investigate the qualifications of the boat operator involved and determine whether passengers were provided with safety gear at the time of the mishap.
Segibo warned that unqualified handlers pose severe risks to passengers and the environment and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property. He cautioned that any vessel operator found violating safety procedures would be arrested, prosecuted, and have their boat impounded to deter others from endangering lives on the waterways.
