TWO persons have been confirmed dead after a 20-passenger ferry boat capsized in Lagos.
Three persons were still missing, while 15 others were rescued in the tragedy that occurred at 7:45am on Wednesday, July 6, 2022.
A statement signed by the general manager, Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the boat departed the Ipakodo ferry terminal in Ikorodu heading to Victoria Island.
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The statement read, “At about 7:45 am today, the 6th of July 2022, a 20-passenger ferry boat, named ‘R&N2’, carrying 17 passengers suddenly capsized not more than 200 metres from the terminal and submerged immediately after it departed the Ipakodo ferry terminal in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State.
“The water guards and the search-and-rescue team of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) were mobilized to the scene of the incident, leading to the rescue of 15 persons.
“Two unconscious female passengers were rushed to the nearest hospital for treatment. They were, however, later confirmed dead.”
The statement said the boat captain was being investigated by the relevant authorities, and assured the public that the cause of the accident would soon be made known publicly.
In early 2020, the Lagos State Government had celebrated six months of mishap-free boat journeys.
The celebration was, however, shortlived as a boat accident happened on August 31, 2020 in Makoko, claiming two lives.
In September 2021, yet another mishap happened in Ikorodu, claiming one life.
The spate of incidents continued into January 2022 when two Lagos Ferry (Lagferry) boats, named Lateef Jakande and Mobolaji Johnson, were gutted by fire in Falomo.
Two crew members were involved, though they were treated in a hospital and there were no deaths.
Experienced Business reporter seeking the truth and upholding justice. Covered capital markets, aviation, maritime, road and rail, as well as economy. Email tips to [email protected]. Follow on Twitter @theminentmuyiwa and on Instagram @Hollumuyiwah.