A tragic boat accident in the Gbaramatu Kingdom of Delta State has resulted in the deaths of at least five people, with one person still missing and several others injured, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
According to SP Bright Edafe, spokesperson for the Delta State police command, six individuals sustained injuries, 19 people were rescued, and one remains unaccounted for following the incident. The boat, which was carrying about 30 passengers, collided with a submerged log in the early hours of Saturday while returning from a burial ceremony.
The collision caused the boat to capsize, throwing passengers into the water. Many of the passengers were unable to swim and were not wearing life jackets, leading to immediate drowning. Eyewitness reports suggest that a toddler’s body was discovered floating hours after the incident.
Edafe confirmed that the search and rescue operation is still ongoing, though divers have yet to locate those still missing. “Five confirmed dead, six injured and receiving treatment, 19 rescued, and one still unaccounted for,” Edafe said, offering few additional details.
Local authorities continue to work with emergency responders to locate the missing individuals. Meanwhile, questions about the safety measures aboard the boat, particularly the lack of life jackets, have been raised. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about water safety in the region.
As the investigation continues, emergency services remain committed to recovering all missing passengers.