By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Rescue efforts intensify: NIWA retrieves bodies and rescues survivors in Anambra boat tragedy
In the wake of a tragic boat mishap in Anambra State, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has provided updates on the incident involving a group returning from a movie shoot. Contrary to initial reports, the incident occurred in the Akpaka Area, a suburb of Onitsha and Nsugbe in Anambra East Local Government Area. Twelve individuals were aboard the ill-fated boat, with seven rescued, two recovered deceased, and three still missing, including two females and one male. NIWA teams, alongside the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria and Marine Police, are actively engaged in rescue and recovery efforts at the scene.
When questioned about the involvement of Nollywood actor John Paul Odonwodo, also known as ‘Junior Pope,’ NIWA’s Area Manager indicated that reports suggested he was among the deceased. However, confirmation awaits the official report from the ongoing investigation. The cause of the incident remains uncertain, pending the findings of NIWA’s team conducting on-site assessments and recovery operations.
This tragic event follows closely on the heels of another boat accident just three months prior in Umumu Umuebwelum Anam, Anambra West Local Government area. That incident, originating from Ojolofe Idah Water Front in Idah Local Government Area of Kogi State, resulted in a boat capsizing upon reaching its destination.
Rescue efforts, Boat Mishap, Anambra Tragedy