The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has announced the arrest of the ferry manager involved in a capsize incident that occurred on Monday in Lagos. This action was taken in response to allegations of negligence and non-compliance with safety regulations.
Mrs. Sarat Braimah, the Lagos Area Manager of NIWA, shared this information in a statement released on Tuesday in Lagos. She noted that the arrest followed a thorough investigation into the events leading up to the incident, which was conducted by NIWA officials.
“The purpose of this arrest is to ensure accountability and to establish a standard for strict compliance with waterways regulations, thereby preventing similar incidents in the future,” Braimah stated. She also indicated that further legal proceedings are in progress as the investigation continues.
The ferry manager is required to produce the captain of the vessel. It has been determined that the fiber boat strayed from its designated channel and collided with a wooden boat, primarily due to the captain’s obstructed view. This obstruction was significantly caused by the loads carried on the fiber boat.
Braimah emphasized that the vessel, operated by Only God Ferry, failed to meet operational safety standards and proper navigation protocols.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the incident took place at Imore, Lagos State, resulting in two passengers still unaccounted for, while five others were rescued with injuries, and additional passengers were saved unharmed. (NAN)
