Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Grieves Over Benue Boat Accident, Calls For Safety Measures

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic boat accident that occurred on December 15, 2024, in Agatu Local Government Area, Benue State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Muhammad Zakari, Oyetola decried the frequency of boat accidents on Nigerian waterways, emphasizing the urgent need for stricter safety measures to prevent such occurrences.

Details of the Tragedy

The accident involved a commercial wooden boat carrying approximately 70 to 80 passengers. The vessel capsized while crossing the River Benue en route to Odenyi in Nasarawa Toto Local Government Area, Nasarawa State. Reports indicate that the victims, mostly traders, were returning from Ocholonya Market in Agatu when the tragedy occurred.

Eyewitness accounts attributed the accident to excessive speed and overloading, factors which are common causes of boat mishaps in the region.

Minister’s Response

Expressing his grief, the minister emphasized that the incident underscored the need for caution among boat operators and passengers. He called for increased collaboration among states, local governments, community leaders, and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to enforce safety regulations and reduce boat accidents.

“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,” the minister stated.

Oyetola reiterated NIWA’s operational guidelines, which mandate safety protocols such as:

•Wearing life jackets.

•Avoiding overloading of boats.

•Operating at safe speeds.

He warned that any party found neglecting these regulations and endangering lives would face appropriate sanctions, including fines and prosecution under the law.

“NIWA’s operational code outlines adherence to safety regulations. Any neglectful party risking lives and property should be fined or tried according to the laid-down rules,” Oyetola emphasized.

Preliminary Investigations

Preliminary reports 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.

Call for Cooperation

The minister urged all stakeholders, including state and local governments, community leaders, and boat operators, to collaborate with the ministry and NIWA to ensure strict compliance with safety measures on Nigerian waterways. He stressed that such cooperation is vital to preventing further loss of lives and property.

The incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to protect lives, especially in regions heavily reliant on water transportation.