The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) released a preliminary report on Friday concerning a boat accident in Anambra involving Nollywood actors, revealing that the boat’s driver was not certified. During a briefing led by Director General Capt. Alex Badeh Jr, the NSIB presented two final reports on aviation incidents, one preliminary aviation report, and the preliminary marine accident report, along with 20 safety recommendations.
The accident, which occurred on April 10, 2024, on the Anam River in Anambra State, involved a boat carrying 12 actors and crew members. The boat capsized, resulting in the deaths of five passengers, including well-known Nollywood actor Paul Odonwodo (Junior Pope), Abigail Frederick, Precious Oforum, and Joseph Anointing. All occupants were thrown into the river, with five passengers dying and seven being rescued.
The NSIB discovered the accident through social media rather than official channels, prompting them to send investigators from the Enugu Regional office to the scene on April 12, 2024. Their findings revealed that the boat driver was not certified, and the boat was not registered with the National Inland Waterways Authority. The overcrowded boat, carrying 12 passengers and one driver, was moving at high speed when a crowded fishing canoe distracted the driver, leading to the collision and subsequent capsizing.
Only one passenger wore a life jacket, which they had brought themselves, and this passenger survived. The boat lacked a passenger manifest, and rescue operations were delayed with no trained divers available to assist. The NSIB recommended that the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) ensure all commercial boats are registered and enforce adequate safety measures on the waterways.
