By The Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), Ikorodu Zone of Lagos, has reacted to the boat mishap which occurred on Wednesday morning.
BlackBox Nigeria had reported that a 17-passenger boat named “R&NN 11” capsized moments after leaving the Ipakodo ferry terminal.
Water guards of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) managed to rescue all the passengers alive. Two female unconscious passengers, however, died while being rushed to the nearest hospital for treatment.
Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, LASWA GM, had said the boat captain is being investigated by the relevant authorities while full investigation into the cause of this mishap commenced immediately.
Reacting to the development in a statement, ATBOWATON, Ikorodu Zone, said its members were “deeply saddened” by the tragic incident.
“We have commenced engagement with LASWA and other regulators to investigate the cause of the mishap and ensure improved safety on the water ways,” the statement read in part.
“We are also committed to the continued provision of emergency care and aid facilities for passengers plying the jetties.”
The body added that it has reached out to the families of the victims, and prayed that God grant the departed souls eternal rest.
