Following a tragic waterway accident in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State that claimed 20 lives last week, the state government has implemented new safety measures.
Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, standing in for Governor Douye Diri, announced the prohibition of cooking in wooden boats and mandated the use of life jackets and provision of life buoys for all boat operators.
Speaking at the weekly State Executive Meeting in Government House, Yenagoa, Ewhrudjakpo stressed the importance of preventing future accidents by enforcing stricter regulations, such as restricting the presence of illegal inflammables in boats.
He emphasized, “Cooking on boats is now prohibited, and all passengers must wear life-jackets, regardless of the type of boat. Life-buoys are mandatory for all boats, and the ban on nighttime travel remains in effect.”
Ewhrudjakpo extended condolences to the families of the accident victims and acknowledged the need for enhanced safety measures to protect lives and property, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring maritime security.
He also expressed sorrow over a recent kidnapping incident along the Nembe-Brass route and assured the public that measures are being taken to safeguard waterways. The government is enforcing regulations to prevent overloading of boats and is grateful for the efforts of all involved in the rescue operations.
Recognition was given to individuals and organizations, including Southern Ijaw Local Government Area Chairman Target Segibo and members of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, for their contributions to the rescue efforts.
The government appealed to the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Nigerian Navy, marine division of the Nigeria Police, and State Community Safety Corps to enforce the new safety protocols, including the existing ban on nighttime travel on waterways.