A year-end voyage turned fatal on Tuesday, December 30 as six passengers drowned following a boat accident along the Igbologun water channel. While first responders rescued four survivors, the bodies of six others were recovered from the scene near Nigerdock. The boat, owned by Savvy Marine, was returning from Ilashe Beach House when the incident occurred at approximately 8:35 p.m.—violating the state’s existing ban on night travel.
In a joint statement confirming the incident, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) detailed the swift emergency response.
According to Wuraola Alake, Head of Public Affairs at LASWA, and Omowunmi Yusuf of NIWA’s Corporate Affairs Unit, Search and Rescue (SAR) teams were immediately activated upon receiving a distress call. The agencies worked in close coordination with the Marine Police and other first responders to manage the crisis.
As at the time of this report, four (4) passengers have been successfully rescued and transported to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving medical attention. Sadly, six (6) other passengers were recovered dead at the scene. Search and rescue operations remain ongoing to account for all persons involved”, the statement said.
A formal investigations continue, the agencies revealed that the boat may have struck a submerged object, triggering the fatal accident,
“however, further investigations are still ongoing to fully assertain the cause of the mishap.”
However, a full inquiry is underway, the agencies confirmed, promising further updates as the investigation progresses.
While extending heartfelt condolences to the families of those lost, the agencies reinforced their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the state’s waterways. Authorities reiterated the necessity of strict compliance with existing safety rules, particularly the non-negotiable ‘NO NIGHT TRAVEL’ directive. The public is urged to remain calm and trust only official, verified information from the relevant agencies.
