Tragic Experience As Man Narrates How He Lose 5 Children

A tragic boat accident occurred in the Andoni-Bonny waterways of Rivers State, Nigeria, resulting in the loss of five members of a family. The owner and driver of the boat, Pastor Ayayi Promise Festus, experienced the devastating loss of four children and a grandchild. However, he, his wife, and 12 others managed to survive the incident. Pastor Festus, who hails from Ngo Town in Andoni local government area, revealed that the mishap took place during their journey from Adoni to Bonny, where they reside, following their festive celebrations. He mentioned that on January 8, while returning to Bonny, he accommodated some passengers who were unable to pay their fare, along with his family.

Tragically, a total of eleven people lost their lives in the accident, and among them were Pastor Festus’ five children. The grief-stricken pastor shared that he has lost everything, including his money, boat, and children, leaving him unsure about how to move forward.

The River State Police have confirmed the incident, stating that they received information about a wooden boat accident involving a single 25HP Yamaha engine. The boat was ferrying passengers from Ukwa Community in Ngo Town, Adoni LGA, to Bonny Island. It sank as it approached Amariaria community in Finina Town, Bonny LGA. SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the police spokesperson, issued a statement explaining that the Officer-in-Charge of the Marine division, SP Ogarachi Chima, promptly responded to the scene and discovered that eleven passengers were feared dead. An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the accident.

Rescuers have reported that as of Wednesday, nine of the deceased passengers’ bodies have been recovered, while the search for the remaining victims continues.

In the wake of this tragic event, Rivers State Governor, Siminialayi Fubara, expressed his condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the accident. The governor also assured the public that his administration will take steps to enhance safety along sea routes within the state.