Navy rescues Bayelsa commissioner, others after boat mishap

The Nigerian Navy has rescued Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Mrs Ebiere Jones, and six other passengers following a boat accident in the Abedigbene waters of Brass Local Government Area.

However, a police officer who was among the eight people aboard the vessel remains missing, as search and rescue operations continue.

The Navy said the rescue was conducted by personnel of its Forward Operating Base, FOB, FORMOSO, stationed at the Labrador Lagosgbene Houseboat, in collaboration with local divers and members of the Abedigbene fishing community.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Base Information Officer, SLT Joshua Dauda, and made available to journalists in Yenagoa on Friday.

Dauda explained that the operation followed a distress call from a local fisherman who reported a boat accident involving a passenger vessel travelling from Yenagoa to Akassa on Thursday.

He said naval personnel immediately moved to the location after receiving the report and launched efforts to locate and rescue those aboard.

“Upon receiving the information, personnel of FOB FORMOSO swiftly mobilised to the incident location and immediately commenced search and rescue operations,” he said.

According to the Navy, seven of the eight passengers were recovered during the operation, including Jones, an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, and five other passengers.

Dauda disclosed that the survivors received first aid at the houseboat after being rescued, while initial medical assessments showed that none had sustained visible injuries.

The commissioner and the six other rescued passengers were later transported to Yenagoa on Friday to reunite with their families.

Reacting to the operation, the Commanding Officer of FOB FORMOSO, Capt. Sunday Haruna, praised the naval personnel for their swift intervention, commitment and professionalism.

Haruna also appreciated the contributions of local divers and members of the Abedigbene fishing community, noting that their involvement highlighted the importance of cooperation between security agencies and host communities during emergencies.

He said the successful recovery of seven passengers demonstrated the Navy’s preparedness and commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining security within its maritime area of responsibility.

The commanding officer further assured that the base would continue to prioritise maritime safety while strengthening its relationship with communities within its operational environment.