From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The founder of the Pastor Reuben Initiative for Good Leadership and Accountability, PRIFGLA and the board member, University of Uyo Governing Council, Pastor Reuben Wilson has described the death of about 27 person in a boat accident in Bayelsa waterways as unfortunate and regrettable.
Pastor Reuben stated this while reacting to the news of the unfortunate boat disaster which claimed the lives of the passengers.
It was gathered that a wooden cargo boat had over 64 passengers and crew on board was journeying from Ezetu 1 community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the state to Yenagoa when the sad incident occurred.
Pastor Reuben while expressing grief over the tragic incident said it a great loss not only to the family members of victims, but the Southern Council and Bayelsa at large.
He noted it is unfortunate that Bayelsans who were full of life and eking out a living would die in such a tragic manner and warned marine transport operators to place utmost value on the safety of lives and properties of passengers by providing life jackets as well ensure that their boats are in good condition before embarking on such journeys.
He further noted that the sad incident has resulted to the loss of lives and properties worth hundreds of millions have been destroyed.
The founder of PRIFGLA called on the federal government, State and the local government councils as well as all relevant authorities to put the necessary policies in place to ensure that boats plying our waterways are sea worthy and conform to marine safety standards to forestall the occurrence of such ugly accidents.
Pastor Reuben commended the maritime union and all those involved for mobilising for the rescue operations which further avert colossal loss.
