Rita Odafe
Tragedy struck in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State as a passenger boat capsized, resulting in the deaths of three individuals, including a young child.
The incident took place on the evening of January 19, 2025, when the boat was traveling from Port Harcourt to Bonny Island.
Eyewitnesses reported that a sudden storm hit an area known as ‘Yellow Platform’ near Bonny Island at around 5 pm, leading to the boat’s capsizing.
The vessel was carrying 22 passengers from the Bonny/Nembe/Bille Waterfront Jetty when it overturned due to the adverse weather conditions, leaving three passengers unaccounted for.
SP Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the State Police Command, confirmed the tragic news to Punch, stating:
“There were 22 people on board, but sadly, three lives were lost. Initially, two bodies were recovered, followed by the discovery of the girl’s body later.”
“Although we mourn this loss, we can report that 19 passengers were rescued safely and are receiving medical care. An investigation is currently underway.”
Israel Pepple, Chairman of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria for the Rivers Commercial District, echoed this statement, noting that the deadly incident was due to a storm.
“Yes, it’s confirmed. There was a boat accident yesterday, resulting in the loss of two male adults and one girl. The boat was traveling from Port Harcourt to Bonny,” he added, confirming that the bodies have been recovered.
In a statement, Anengi Claude-Wilcox, Chairperson of Bonny LGA, expressed her profound sorrow over the incident, which claimed the lives of two adults and a toddler:
“The Bonny Local Government Council is heartbroken by the tragic accident that occurred on the Bonny-Port Harcourt route, which took place on January 19th, claiming three lives.”
“Initial investigations indicate that the mishap was triggered by a sudden ocean storm that impacted the vessel, resulting in the loss of three lives, while 19 individuals survived and received prompt medical attention, funded by the Bonny Local Government.”
Claude-Wilcox extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and friends, wishing them strength during this difficult time, and offered prayers for the deceased:
“May God provide you the resilience to cope with this tragic loss and may the souls of the departed rest in peace.”
Furthermore, she noted that the council is probing into the actions of another passenger boat that was on the scene during the tragedy and failed to assist the victims. She also urged caution among travelers during violent weather conditions:
“Reports indicate that there was a nearby passenger boat that did not stop to help those struggling at sea during the incident,” she stated.
“The Bonny Local Government Council encourages anyone with information regarding the boat operator to reach out to the Council Secretary, and advises travelers to be vigilant regarding weather conditions, adhering strictly to safety regulations to prevent future incidents.”
