No fewer than six passengers have been confirmed dead, while four others were rescued, following a boat accident along the Nigerdock axis of the Igbologun Water Channel in Lagos.
The incident occurred on Tuesday at about 8:35 p.m., involving a Savvy Marine passenger boat that was en route from Ilashe Beach House, according to a joint statement issued on Wednesday by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).
The statement, jointly signed by Wuraola Alake, Head of LASWA’s Public Affairs Unit, and Omowunmi Yussuff, Head of Corporate Affairs at NIWA’s Lagos Area Office, said rescue teams were immediately deployed after a distress alert was received.
“As of the time of this report, four passengers have been rescued and taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention, while six others were found dead. Search and rescue operations are still ongoing to account for all persons involved,” the agencies said.
Preliminary findings suggest the boat may have collided with a submerged object, though investigations are continuing to determine the exact cause of the accident.
LASWA and NIWA extended their condolences to the families of the victims and assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted, with updates to be provided as more information becomes available.
The agencies also reiterated the need for strict compliance with water safety regulations, including proper navigation, use of life jackets, and adherence to the night travel restriction.
Members of the public were advised to rely only on verified information from LASWA, NIWA, and other official sources.
Earlier in December, LASWA and NIWA launched a festive-season safety campaign aimed at reducing waterway accidents during periods of heavy travel, particularly in December, when water traffic increases.