Deborah Akinyosoye
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed grief over the tragic boat accident that occurred on December 15, 2024, in the Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
This was contained in a statement signed by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Muhammad Zakari, on Tuesday.
The incident involved a commercial wooden boat conveying approximately 70 to 80 passengers, which capsized while crossing the River Benue en route to Odenyi in the Nasarawa Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
Reports suggest the victims, primarily traders, were returning from the Ocholonya Market in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State when the tragedy struck. Eyewitness accounts revealed that the accident was caused by excessive speed and overloading.
The statement read, “The minister decried the spate of boat accidents on our waterways. He noted that the incident has once again highlighted the need for caution by boat operators and users and the urgent need for stricter safety measures on Nigerian waterways.
“He sued for the cooperation of states, local governments, community leaders and all and sundry to join efforts with the ministry and the National Inland Waterways Authority to stem the spate of boat accidents by paying more attention to safety.”
The minister called for collaboration among states, local governments, and community leaders to support the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, alongside NIWA in curbing boat accidents.
‘‘NIWA’s operational code outlines, amongst others, adherence to safety regulations such as wearing life jackets and avoiding overloading of boats. Any neglectful party risking lives and property of anyone should be fined or tried according to the laid down rules’,’ Oyetola emphasised.
Preliminary investigations have identified the boat owner and operator as Mr. Abubakar Muhammed. The vessel, powered by an outboard engine, capsized due to a combination of overloading and excessive speed, according to eyewitnesses.