Another Boat Tragedy Hits Uyo, 10 Perish 

By Our Reporter 

A heart-wringging happening occured off the coastline of Mbo Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, claiming the lives of 10 individuals in a tragic boat accident. The victims were met with a devastating fate as their outboard engine boat capsized while navigating the waters.

Among the casualties, five individuals belonged to the same family, originating from Udung Uko Local Government Area. They had embarked on a journey from a fishing settlement, Ine Ataobong in Bakassi Peninsula, and were met with treacherous conditions that led to the tragic overturn of their boat. Only two people managed to survive the ghastly incident.

Expressing her grief, Mrs. Eno Effai, a relative of one of the survivors and a seafood vendor, highlighted the tragic nature of the incident. She lamented the absence of life jackets on the ill-fated boat and shared how the sea had been tumultuous during this period, claiming numerous lives of travelers en route to Mbo or Oron. The loss of an entire family, including a mother and school children, has further deepened the sorrow surrounding this mishap.

Recall that only recently in Calabar, 14 medical students who were in Cross River State for the NIMSA week suffered a boat mishap at the marina resort, Calabar. Tragically, three students lost their lives in this incident, while 11 were fortunately rescued from the waters. The mishap serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers that can befall individuals navigating the waterways, even during seemingly innocuous activities.

Meanwhile, a concerned group known as Mbo Concerned Citizens has seized this opportunity to advocate for the establishment of a Coast Guard in order to combat the nefarious activities of sea pirates in the region's waterways. In their statement released in Uyo, the state capital, the group emphasized the urgent need for such an outfit to safeguard the lives of individuals involved in boat mishaps, ultimately preserving precious lives.

Mbo Concerned Citizens passionately appealed to the government, both federal and state, to seriously consider the establishment of a Coast Guard. They stressed the significant impact it would have on the safety and well-being of the local fishermen, who have endured immense suffering due to the activities of pirates on the waterways. Drawing inspiration from developed nations, the group highlighted the potential employment opportunities that would arise from such an establishment, particularly for the energetic and aspiring youth of the region.

As the call for a Coast Guard gains momentum, it serves as a poignant reminder of the pressing need for enhanced safety measures on the waterways. The government is urged to give careful consideration to this plea, as it has the potential to prevent further loss of life in future boat mishaps and ensure the protection of its citizens.