21 feared drowned in two Lagos passenger boats collision

21 feared drowned, other missing in two Lagos passenger boats collision

Twenty-one people are reportedly drowned in Lagos after two passenger boats collided Monday night in the middle of lagoon near Imore Town of the Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area.

Eleven passengers confirmed rescued were injured and immediately rushed to a hospital in the nearby Navy Town for treatment.

The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety standards of water transportation in the country as many are calling for stricter enforcement of maritime safety measures.

Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that the collision resulted in the two boats capsizing, adding that each was carrying 16 passengers.

The state police command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said, “A distress call was received at the Ilashe Division around 7pm on Monday. Two unregistered passenger boats, both carrying 16 passengers, allegedly collided in the middle of the lagoon at Imore Town.

“In the process, both boats capsized, and the passengers, along with their goods, were thrown into the water.”

Hundeyin also said a response team comprising conventional and marine police officers, local divers, and other emergency responders were deployed.

He said, “So far, 11 passengers have been rescued with injuries and were rushed to Naval Hospital, Navy Town Alakija, for medical attention.

“While the rescue mission has made significant progress, the operation is still ongoing to recover the bodies of the remaining passengers who are feared to have drowned. We are working closely with all emergency services to bring this unfortunate situation under control.

“As of now, an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the collision, and authorities are urging boat operators to adhere to safety regulations, including proper registration of vessels and ensuring that passengers wear life jackets.”