Mishap: Bonny Local Government Condoles With Bereaved Families, Says 2 Adults, Toddler Dead

The Bonny Local Government Council has condoled with the families of two adults and a toddler who lost their lives in a boat mishap along the Bonny River on Sunday, January 19, 2025.

Chairman of Bonny LGA, Anengi Claude-Wilcox, in a statement on Monday, January 20, 2025, signed by the Secretary to the Bonny Local Government, John Gabriel-Pepple and made available to Kristina Reports in Bonny, Rivers State, said she was deeply saddened by the incident.

“STATEMENT OF CONDOLENCE

The Bonny Local Government Council is deeply saddened by the tragic boat mishap that occurred on the Bonny-Port Harcourt sea-route on Sunday, January 19th, 2025, claiming the lives of two adults and a toddler.

Preliminary findings revealed that the mishap was caused by a sudden rise of oceanic storm which troubled the boat, leading to the unfortunate mishap that claimed three lives, with 19 survivors who were all immediately taken for medical attention at the expense of the Bonny Local Government.

We extend our sincerest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims. May God grant you all the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

The Council shares in this grief and pain, and we pray that the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.”
The Bonny LG Council asked the public to assist with useful information on a passenger boat that met the scene but refused to render assistance to the incidented boat or its stranded passengers, advising travelers to be wary of traveling under inclement weather.

“Sadly, information reaching the Council revealed that there was a passenger boat that met the scene of the incident but refused to stop to rescue the victims of the mishap while they were struggling to survive on the sea. Anybody with useful information about the particular boat driver should contact the Council Secretary via: 08035085782.”

“Bonny Local Government Council advises travellers to be cautious of the weather and adhere strictly to the safety rules and measures of passenger ferries, so as to avert future recurrence.”

“May God comfort and console us all and give the families the fortitude to bear this unbearable loss.”

Reports have it that three casualties – two adults and a toddler – and 19 survivors were involved in a boat mishap on Monday, January 19, 2025 along the Bonny River.

Concerned residents of Bonny Island have continued to call on the relevant authorities to provide better safety measures for commuters utilizing the Bonny-Port Harcourt sea route, as well as compel Julius Berger to expedite work on the completion of the Bodo-Bonny Road.

Some have also charged the security agencies including the Marine Police to enforce marine safety protocols at the Port Harcourt.