The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has ordered a thorough probe into the boat accident in Kogi State.
Force spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Saturday, said the IGP mandated the Force Marine Officer to lead a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the mishap.
He said the aim is to identify contributing factors and develop actionable strategies to prevent similar occurrences on the nation’s waterways.
He added that the investigation will also provide insights into improving the overall safety and emergency response systems for water transport across the country.
The IGP, who consoled the families of the victims and Kogi people over the boat mishap, assured of police’s resolve to ensure the swift rescue of missing passengers.
“Resources and operational modalities have been activated to intensify search and rescue efforts,” the police said.
IGP Egbetokun urged waterway operators, boat owners, and other stakeholders to work closely with the Force Marine Department in adopting and enforcing critical safety measures to protect passengers and operators alike.
Meanwhile, no fewer than 20 persons have been rescued and eight bodies recovered from the tragic boat accident that occurred along the Dembo-Ebuchi section of River Niger in Niger State.
The chairman of Katcha Local Government Area Abdullahi Saku confirmed the figure during an assessment of the area.
Saku said that the boat was carrying over 200 passengers, mostly artisans and traders when the accident occurred.
