The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the death of three people—a toddler and two adults—after a passenger boat capsized on Sunday evening near Bonny Island.
The state police spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, revealed to the News Agency of Nigeria in Port Harcourt on Tuesday that 19 passengers were rescued from the tragic incident.
“There were 22 passengers on board the ill-fated boat, but unfortunately, three individuals lost their lives. The bodies of the three victims, including a young girl, have been recovered,” Iringe-Koko said.
The boat was traveling from Port Harcourt to Bonny Island when an ocean storm caused sudden high waves, leading to the mishap. The accident occurred near the Yellow Platform close to Bonny.
The Chairman of Bonny Local Government Council, Mr. Anengi Claude-Wilcox, also addressed the tragedy. A statement issued by the Council Secretary, John Gabriel-Pepple, confirmed that preliminary investigations showed the boat’s captain lost control after the storm intensified.
Claude-Wilcox said, “The incident claimed the lives of two adults and a toddler, while 19 survivors were immediately taken to the hospital at the expense of the Bonny Council. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ families, friends, and loved ones.”
The council revealed disturbing claims about another passenger boat reportedly present at the scene. According to the chairman, this boat refused to assist in the rescue effort as passengers from the capsized boat struggled in the water.
“We call on anyone with useful information about the driver of that boat to contact the council secretary,” Claude-Wilcox said.
