The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the tragic boat accident that took place on the Anam River in Anambra State on April 10, 2024.
According to the NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Bimbo Oladeji, the aim of the investigation is to unravel the circumstances surrounding the accident, identify potential contributing factors, and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The incident resulted in the loss of five lives, including popular Nollywood actor Paul Odonwodo, known as Junior Pope, as well as Abigail Frederick, Precious Oforum, and Joseph Anointing.
The fatal collision occurred when a speedboat carrying twelve film crew members and a boat operator collided with a canoe on the Anam River.
Captain Alex Badeh, the Director General of NSIB, stated that an investigation team has been dispatched to the accident site to commence the inquiry.
The investigation scope includes examining the wreckage of both vessels involved in the collision, interviewing survivors and witnesses, reviewing operational procedures, analyzing weather conditions at the time of the accident, and assessing compliance with safety standards and regulations for inland waterway transportation.
NSIB will collaborate with the Anambra State Police Command’s Marine Police section, maritime authorities, and industry experts to investigate the boat accident thoroughly. The investigation will result in both preliminary and final reports with recommendations to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Captain Badeh expressed condolences to the families of the victims and pledged to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the tragedy and prevent future occurrences.
