The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released an initial report on the boat accident involving actor Jnr Pope and others that happened on April 10, 2024, in Anam River, Anambra State.
The boat, carrying 12 actors and crew members, crashed, causing the loss of five lives, including Jnr Pope, Ms. Abigail Frederick, Mr. Precious Oforum, and Mr. Joseph Anointing.
During a press briefing on May 24, the NSIB revealed that the boat driver was not certified. The Director General, Capt. Alex Badeh Jn, presented two final aviation incident reports, one preliminary aviation incident report, and a preliminary marine accident report, along with 20 safety recommendations.
Engr. Abdullahi Babanya, Director of Transport Investigation, explained that the speed boat capsized, throwing all occupants into the river. He mentioned that the boat’s driver was distracted by rowdiness on board and failed to pay attention. The collision with a canoe led to the capsizing.
Only one person on the canoe managed to escape by jumping into the river, while the rest were flung into the water. Sadly, only one passenger aboard the boat was wearing a life jacket, which was not provided by the operator. Rescue efforts were delayed, and there were no trained divers available to assist promptly.
