In a heartbreaking incident, seven individuals tragically lost their lives in a boat accident on the Gelegele River, situated in the Ovia North East Local Government of Edo State.
The victims were part of a group of 28 passengers journeying from Ofunama when the unfortunate event transpired.
According to accounts, the tragic vessel ran out of fuel and was then pushed into oil barges that belonged to a multinational oil exploration company by strong waves. The incident unfolded on Ekehuan Market Day as the boat was making halts to disembark passengers along the riverside communities.
The boat operator had securely moored the vessel to procure fuel. However, upon his return and attempt to restart the boat, it failed to react. Regrettably, the high waves then drove the boat into the trajectory of the oil barges, leading to a disastrous collision. Blessing Perewari, the Vice Chairman of Ovia South West local government area, visited the scene and provided an update on the dire situation.
Perewari disclosed distressing details, stating, “About 28 adults, two pregnant women, and three babies were involved. When they reached the Gelegele waterside, there was a Dubri oil company barge parked parallelly. The way the barges were positioned created an obstruction on the waterway. While attempting to restart the boat after dropping two passengers, the engine failed to respond.”
Owing to the strong current of the river, the boat tragically ended up submerged beneath the barges, trapping victims under the water. Despite heroic rescue attempts from the Marine Police and local community members, seven individuals lost their lives, while 18 survivors were luckily rescued.
The bodies of the deceased have been transported to Time Hospital and Stella Obasanjo Hospital, pending further action. Comrade Joseph Gbale, one of the community members involved in the rescue operation, confirmed the Vice Chairman’s account and suggested that the barges should not have blocked the narrow waterway.
The Marine Police have since reported the incident to the Edo State Police Command in Benin City. While official updates are awaited, the Police Public Relations Officer, Chidi Nwabuzor, expressed his commitment to providing further information once it is available.
