Kogi boat accident: 20 rescued, IGP orders investigation

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed an investigation into the boat accident that occurred in Kogi State on Friday, which is feared to have claimed the lives of many passengers.

In a statement on Saturday, Force spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi confirmed that the IGP had tasked the Force Marine Officer with leading a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the tragedy.

According to Adejobi, the objective is to identify the contributing factors and develop strategies to prevent future accidents on Nigeria’s waterways. The investigation will also focus on improving safety measures and emergency response systems for water transport across the country.

The IGP expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and the people of Kogi State, emphasizing the police’s commitment to rescuing any remaining missing passengers. “Resources and operational strategies have been activated to intensify search and rescue operations,” the statement added.

Egbetokun also urged waterway operators, boat owners, and other stakeholders to collaborate with the Force Marine Department to implement and enforce essential safety measures for both passengers and operators.

Meanwhile, at least 20 people have been rescued, and eight bodies recovered from the boat accident that occurred along the Dembo-Ebuchi section of River Niger in Niger State. Abdullahi Saku, Chairman of Katcha Local Government Area, confirmed the numbers during a visit to the site, adding that the boat, which was carrying over 200 passengers, was mostly made up of artisans and traders.

Rescue efforts continue as authorities work to recover more bodies. The local community has called on the federal government to dredge the Dembo-Ebuchi section of River Niger, extending to Baro, in order to reduce the frequency of such incidents.

Recent months have seen several boat mishaps across the country, leading to numerous fatalities. These accidents have been attributed to various factors, including poor regulation and inadequate safety measures.