Etim Effiong
Seven female passengers have died and 14 others, including two crew members, were rescued from a boat that capsized on Friday night along Ebute-Ero enroute Ikorodu.
Director General, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, made the disclosure on Sunday night.
He said, “Final tally revealed a total of 19 passengers and two crew members were aboard the capsized vessel.
“A total of 14 (inclusive of crew) were rescued alive while seven (females) were recovered, having lost their lives.
“Initial information was that a boat capsized at the aforementioned location around 8pm on Friday, July 3, having departed Ebute-Ero enroute Ikorodu in violation of night time restrictions.
“Search and rescue operations, alongside the Lagos State Waterways Authority dive team commenced under extremely challenging nightfall conditions. The operation concluded on Sunday, July 5.”
The Public Relations Officer, Mr Nosa Okunbor, who said this on behalf of Oke-Osanyintolu, reminded members of the public to abide by the safety regulations of the state, including appropriate usage of life jackets and restrictions on timing and plying of the waterways.