A speed boat capsized in Calabar, Cross River state, killing five people, according to reports.
The incident occurred on Saturday while the boat was on its way to Oron in Akwa Ibom state.
NAN reports that 20 people boarded the boat at the Marina Resort in Calabar.
According to a senior naval officer, the eastern naval command played a significant role in rescuing some of the victims.
According to the source, 14 of them were rescued.
“The navy participated in the rescue mission; we rescued at least 14 of them,” he said.
“I can’t give you the exact location of the boat because we were only rushing for the rescue mission, but I’m sure the command will issue a statement soon to that effect.”
According to Emmanuel Ogbeche, the state governor’s chief press secretary, three medical students aboard the boat have yet to be found.
He stated that the state governor, Bassey Otu, has ordered an investigation into the incident.
According to reports, the medical students travelled to Calabar for the Nigeria Medical Students Games.
“The news of a cruise boat mishap at the Marina Resort, a tourist and relaxation destination in Calabar, is saddening and calls for concern not only as your governor, but as a parent,” the statement says.
“To imagine that the boat was overcrowded and that some of those on board were not wearing life jackets is even more concerning, and the more reason why the state government will be investigating the incident, and all those found culpable of compromising safety standards will face the wrath of the law.”
“As a government, we remain committed to protecting the sanctity of life and creating a conducive environment for business, tourism, and peaceful living.” As a result, any unsavoury behaviour that could jeopardise our goal will not be tolerated.”
On June 13, a boat carrying over 100 passengers returning from a wedding capsized in Egbu village, Patigi LGA, Kwara state.
The victims, who included women and children, were said to be on their way back to Patigi from Egboti, a community in Niger state.
