In a devastating boat accident on the River Niger around Mmiata Anam in Anambra West Local Government Area, Anambra State, five individuals lost their lives, while 30 others were fortunate enough to be rescued.
The ill-fated boat was en route from Kogi State to Anambra, navigating the River Niger when it capsized at the Mmiata banks. The incident occurred on Sunday morning, and the victims, primarily women and children, were on their way from a riverine area in Kogi State to Onitsha for various business purposes.
A video shared by a source in the riverine community displayed the tragic aftermath, revealing the efforts of rescue operators who dived into the waters to recover lifeless bodies. While the deceased have not been identified, their bodies were deposited by the riverbank.
According to the source, more than 10 lifeless bodies were counted as rescue operations continued. The Anambra State Police Command spokesman, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident, noting that the distress call prompted a swift response from marine operatives.
Rescue efforts resulted in the recovery of over 30 passengers alive, while five were tragically found dead. The boat, reportedly from Kogi State, was carrying both goods and passengers when the incident occurred. The cause of the accident is yet to be determined, and investigations are ongoing.
The State Emergency Management Authority’s Public Relations Officer, Chinyere Nwoye, stated that the agency is working to identify the victims and has informed the police. The victims are believed to be mostly from Kogi State.
Senator Tony Nwoye, representing Anambra North Senatorial Zone, expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and lamented the lack of a reliable transportation system, which he believed contributed to the tragedy. Nwoye pledged to provide speed boats for the riverine communities within his constituency in response to the incident.