A passenger boat capsized while traveling from Port Harcourt to Bonny in Rivers State on Sunday evening, resulting in the deaths of three individuals, including a toddler. The incident occurred around 5 p.m. due to a storm at an area known as “Yellow Platform” near Bonny Island. Out of the 22 passengers on board, 19 were rescued. State police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the tragedy, expressing her sadness over the event.
Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed that of the 22 people on board, three lost their lives when the boat capsized en route to Bonny Island from Port Harcourt due to a windstorm at the Yellow Platform. Two bodies were initially recovered, followed by the discovery of the third, a girl’s body. Nineteen passengers were successfully rescued. Israel Pepple, Chairman of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, also verified the circumstances of the accident. In response, Bonny Local Government officials extended their condolences to the families affected by this tragedy.
Anengi Claude-Wilcox, Chairman of Bonny Local Government Area, expressed profound sadness regarding the boat accident that occurred on January 19, 2025, along the Bonny-Port Harcourt sea route, resulting in the deaths of two adults and a toddler. In a statement signed by Secretary John Gabriel-Pepple, he indicated that preliminary investigations suggested the crash was caused by a sudden oceanic storm.
The 19 survivors received medical attention at the council’s expense. Claude-Wilcox extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and emphasized a collective grieving process, offering prayers for the deceased.
Claude-Wilcox announced that the council is investigating a nearby passenger boat that allegedly failed to assist victims during the incident. She emphasized the importance of avoiding travel in turbulent conditions. The statement revealed that this passenger boat ignored the cries for help from those struggling in the water. The council is urging anyone with information about the boat’s driver to come forward and encouraged travelers to be mindful of weather conditions and follow safety regulations for ferries to prevent future accidents.
Residents of Bonny Island have called for improved safety measures for travelers on the Bonny-Port Harcourt route and have urged the contractor to expedite the completion of the Bodo-Bonny Road project.