Breaking: Fatal Boat Accident in Rivers: More Than 20 People Feared Dead

At least 20 individuals have lost their lives in a tragic boat accident in the Andoni waterways within the Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State. The distressing incident was disclosed in a statement on Wednesday by Erastus Awortu, the Executive Chairman of Andoni LGA…..CONTINUE READING

The accident, which occurred on Tuesday night, involved two passenger boats en route to Bonny, a nearby coastal council district.

Awortu extended his condolences to the families and communities affected, expressing sorrow that the tragedy unfolded after successful festive events, including unification carnivals in the council region.

He assured that the council would rescue those still alive, offer first aid to the injured, and retrieve the bodies of the deceased from the river.

The council chairman underscored the importance of boat operators adhering to all passenger safety procedures and cautioned against nighttime sea travel.

He stated, “We received with rude shock and deep pain a disturbing report that over 20 people from Andoni are feared dead in a boat mishap involving two Andoni/Bonny-bound boats that occurred within the Andoni waterways on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.

“When we learned of the tragic development, we immediately dispatched our team to join the first responders on a rescue mission at the scene of the incident in an attempt to salvage the situation.

“Our hearts go out to the victims’ families and communities, particularly those in Ngo Town, Ataba, Isiama, and other communities where loved ones were involved in the boat mishap.

“We share their anguish and trauma, and our prayers and thoughts are with them during this difficult time.

“As a Local Government, we will do everything we can to alleviate the grief of bereaved families and communities.

“We also warn the operators to desist from embarking on a night journey on the sea.”