Traveling on water in Delta State without wearing life jackets and observing other safety measures has been prohibited by the Delta State Government.
The announcement was made in a condolence message from Dr. Nnamdi Ijeh, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, to the families affected by the recent boat accident on the River Niger, which tragically resulted in the death of Nollywood actor, Junior Pope, and others.
This message was shared with journalists in Asaba, the state capital, on Monday.
In the letter dated April 11, 2024, the commissioner expressed the state government’s sympathies and those of the creative community in the state regarding the unfortunate incident that occurred on April 10, 2024.
“On behalf of the State Government, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the entire creative community in the state, I extend my sympathies to the families of the individuals who lost their lives while expressing their creative talents on their way back from a movie shoot location on April 10, 2024, and to the entire Nollywood community.
“We share in your grief. Upon reaching the scene, we found that those who survived the boat accident were wearing life jackets.
“It is imperative, during this difficult time, to emphasize that such journeys should always include life jackets, professional divers, and other safety measures,” he stated.
Ijeh emphasized, “The Delta State Government places the safety of its citizens as a top priority and strongly advises against water travel without necessary safety equipment, particularly within the entertainment industry.”
In the letter, which was also sent to Dr. Emeka Rollas, the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, the commissioner prayed for the souls of the deceased.
NAN