Bayelsa Commissioner, six others escape death in boat accident

The Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with members of the Abedigbene fishing community in Bayelsa, has rescued seven passengers from drowning following a boat mishap in the area on Thursday.

The rescued passengers include the Bayelsa Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr Ebieri Jones, an official of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and five other passengers.

This is contained in an operational report by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.

Folorunsho said personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO, working with local divers, carried out the rescue around the Abedigbene waters in Brass Local Government Area of the state.

“The incident involved a passenger boat travelling from Yenagoa to Akassa, which reportedly had eight persons on board.

“Following a distress report from a local fisherman, personnel deployed at Labrador Lagosgbene Houseboat promptly mobilised to the scene and commenced search and rescue operations.

“With the support of the community members, the survivors were found and taken to the houseboat, where they received first aid, with preliminary assessments indicating no visible injuries,” he said.

The naval spokesman said the eighth passenger, identified as a police officer, remained missing, adding that search and rescue operations were continuing to locate him.

He explained that on Friday, the commissioner and the six other survivors were conveyed to Yenagoa to reunite with their respective families.

According to Folorunsho, the operation highlights the Navy’s commitment to maritime safety, protection of lives and prompt response to emergencies within its area of responsibility.

He quoted the Commanding Officer of FOB FORMOSO, Capt. Sunday Haruna, as commending the personnel for their prompt response and professionalism, while acknowledging the invaluable support of local divers and the host community.

“The successful rescue further underscores the importance of collaboration between security agencies and coastal communities in strengthening maritime safety and protecting lives,” he said.

(NAN)