Five people who went to buy seafood at a local market at Ugbo-Nla in Ilaje local government area of Ondo State, have died in a boat mishap.
Also, another five persons have been confirmed dead from a road crash involving a commercial bus, with registration number: DKA 256 XY in Ikaram Akoko, Akoko Northwest local government area of the state.
LEADERSHIP learnt that the travellers were involved in an accident on the waterway and lost their lives instantly, while only one person was rescued, due to the use of a life jacket.
Following this tragic incident, the national president of the Ondo State Fishermen Association of Nigeria, Ambassador Orioye Benedict Gbayisemore, has urged the state government to enforce the use of life jackets on water.
Gbayisemore, who is worried about the development, advised the state government to enforce the use of life jackets to prevent reoccurrence of the unfortunate incident.
According to him, stringent measures should be implemented to enforce mandatory use of life jackets by commuters on waterways.
He added that this will significantly enhance safety and increase the chances of survival during an emergency.
He stressed that, “the presence of a life jacket saved the life of the sole survivor in this tragic incident, highlighting its critical importance in ensuring the safety of individuals engaged in maritime activities.
“The lone survivor in the Ugbo Nla boat mishap had the foresight to wear a life jacket, before setting out on the ill-fated trip. The life jacket was vital to his survival, keeping him buoyant until rescue arrived.
“This serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to enforce the use of life jackets for all individuals commuting on water.”
Gbayisemore also urged the state government to prioritise dredging and clearing of waterways, to facilitate safe and unobstructed movement for passengers.
He said, “It is crucial to recognise that well-maintained waterways enhance ease of transportation and significantly reduce the risk of accidents, ensuring safety and wellbeing of those who rely on water transportation.
“Additionally, the government needs to recognise the significance of investing in water transportation. This mode of transportation can contribute to economic growth in the region.
“The government can promote safe and efficient travel for its citizens by encouraging and supporting investment in water transportation infrastructure.”
He also advised the state government to support boat workers to develop a robust water transportation system.
“Supporting boat workers is crucial to developing a robust water transportation system. Training, resources and necessary support for boat workers will enhance their skills, ensure adherence to safety protocols and foster a culture of professionalism within the industry.
“This tragic event serves as a critical call to the government to enforce the mandatory use of life jackets, prioritise dredging and clearing of waterways for improved passenger safety, recognise the importance of investing in water transportation and support boat workers. By doing so, the government can prevent future tragedies and create a safer environment for all water commuters.”
LEADERSHIP learnt that the road accident which claimed five lives instantly involved an 18-passenger bus, where other occupants sustained various degrees of injuries.
It was gathered that those who sustained injuries were taken to State Specialist Hospital, Ikare Akoko for medical attention, while the dead bodies have been deposited at the hospital morgue.
An eyewitness told LEADERSHIP that the ill-fated bus tyre burst while it was at high speed at a junction leading to Ajowa Akoko and Akunu Akoko.
The source hinted that men of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Ikare unit with police officers and sympathisers were involved in the rescue operations as many people were in tears and wailing.
The commander of FRSC Ikare Akoko, Mr Oluropo Alabi confirmed the accident but said he was not in a position to give accurate numbers of victims, adding that the rescue operations are still on.
