Tragedy struck in Bayelsa State when a wooden cargo boat, “Godbless Dickson”, caught fire and sank in the Ezetu 1 community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area.
The boat, carrying over 64 passengers and crew members, as well as cargo, exploded and burst into flames, resulting in the loss of 20 lives.
According to ASP Musa Mohammed, spokesperson for the Bayelsa Police Command, rescue efforts are ongoing to save other victims.
The boat was transporting farm produce from a rural settlement to Swali market in Yenagoa when the incident occurred.
Target Segibo, Chairman of Southern Ijaw LGA, described the incident as a “disaster” and “regrettable”.
He called for improved safety regulations in the marine transport sector across the state, emphasizing the need for stakeholders to strengthen measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
