A Wednesday evening boat disaster in Bayelsa State’s Southern Ijaw Local Government Area has claimed the lives of 20 people. The ill-fated vessel, known as the ‘Denghe Market Boat,’ caught fire after an engine explosion while traveling on the Ezetu 1 River. The boat, which typically transports traders from community to community before arriving in Yenagoa every Thursday, was engulfed in flames, leaving the wooden boat to sink amidst the chaos.
Eyewitnesses report that many passengers leaped into the river as the boat burned, but tragically, 20 individuals perished in the blaze. Rescue operations are currently underway to recover the bodies of those who drowned. ASP Musa Muhammed, Bayelsa State Police spokesperson, confirmed the tragedy and the ongoing efforts to retrieve the victims’ remains.
Maritime Workers Union Chairman Mr. Ipgansi Ogoniba noted that while the exact number of casualties remains unclear due to the ongoing search, one body was recovered late Wednesday. The accident occurred when the boat, departing from Ezetu 1 around 3 PM and headed for Okubie, suffered a catastrophic engine failure and explosion. The lack of network coverage delayed the rescue efforts, as the boat’s lengthy journey typically spans about 18 hours compared to the 5-hour trip by speedboat.
Comrade Odede Dinikpete Tina, Chairperson of the Association of Coastal and Waterways Communities of Nigeria in Bayelsa State, criticized the boat operators for neglecting safety protocols, particularly the failure to provide life jackets. She called on the state government to enhance road connectivity to coastal communities to mitigate such tragedies.
Hon Target Segibo, Executive Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and urged maritime officials to enforce stricter safety regulations. He emphasized the need for boat operators to prioritize passenger safety by equipping vessels with life jackets and maintaining them in good condition.
