The manager of a ferry that capsized on Monday in Lagos State has been arrested for alleged negligence and failure to comply with safety regulations
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) confirmed the arrest of the manager on Tuesday in a statement.
The arrest follows an in-depth investigation into the incident, conducted by NIWA, aimed at ensuring accountability and preventing future occurrences.
The Lagos Area Manager of NIWA, Mrs Sarat Braimah in the statement revealed that the investigation uncovered serious safety violations.
The findings indicated that the fiber boat involved in the mishap veered off its designated channel, colliding with a wooden boat due to the captain’s obstructed vision caused by excessive loads on the ferry.
“The arrest is aimed at ensuring accountability and setting a precedence for strict adherence to waterways regulations to prevent future occurrences,” Braimah stated, stressing that legal actions are underway as the investigation continues.
NIWA has demanded that the ferry manager produce the captain of the ill-fated boat for further questioning.
According to Braimah, the ferry, operated by Only God Ferry, had failed to meet operational safety standards and proper navigation procedures.
The tragic incident occurred on Monday at Imore in Lagos State, where two passengers remain missing. Five others were rescued with injuries, while several passengers were rescued unharmed.
