Six dead as passenger boat capsizes on Lagos Waterway

At least six passengers have been confirmed dead, while four others were rescued, following a boat mishap along the Nigerdock axis of the Igbologun water channel in Lagos State.

The incident occurred at about 8:35 p.m. on Tuesday and involved a Savvy Marine passenger boat that was reportedly en route from Ilashe Beach House when the accident happened.

Rescue operations were ongoing as of press time to locate other passengers who may still be missing.

The incident was confirmed in a joint statement issued by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), signed by NIWA’s Head of Public Affairs Unit, Wuraola Alake, and LASWA’s Head of Corporate Affairs Unit, Omowunmi Yussuff.

According to the statement, both agencies immediately activated their Search and Rescue (SAR) teams upon receiving a distress alert, working in collaboration with the Marine Police and other first responders.

“As of the time of this report, four passengers have been successfully rescued and taken to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving medical attention,” the statement said.

“Sadly, six other passengers were recovered dead at the scene, while search and rescue operations remain ongoing to account for all persons involved.”

Preliminary findings suggest the mishap may have been caused by a collision with a submerged object, although authorities stressed that investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact cause of the incident.

LASWA and NIWA assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted and that updates would be provided as more information becomes available. The agencies also expressed condolences to the families of the victims and reiterated the need for strict adherence to waterways safety regulations, including compliance with the “No Night Travel” rule.