The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into the fatal boat accident that occurred on the Anam River in Anambra State on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

This tragic incident involved a commercial speedboat and a fishing canoe.

The boat carrying twelve actors and crew members and a boat operator reportedly crashed into the canoe, resulting in the loss of five lives.

Among the deceased was popular Nollywood actor, Mr. Paul Odonwodo, known professionally as Junior Pope, Ms. Abigail Frederick, Mr. Precious Oforum, and Mr. Joseph Anointing.

Expressing regret over the accident, the director general of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Juniour, declared: “The NSIB extends its deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this heartbreaking accident. We share in your grief and are fully committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of this tragedy and prevent similar occurrences in the future.”

According to Badeh, an investigation team has been dispatched to the accident site, and inquiry has begun.

“The investigation scope includes, but is not limited to: examination of the wreckage from both vessels involved in the collision, interviews with surviving crew members, and eyewitnesses, review of operational procedures for the commercial speed boat,analysis of weather and environmental conditions at the time of the accident, and assessment of compliance with relevant safety standards and regulations for inland waterway transportation.

“NSIB will collaborate with relevant authorities, including the Marine Police section of the Anambra State Police Command, maritime authorities, and industry experts during the investigation.”

The bureau promised to release its findings in a preliminary report, followed by a final report upon the investigation’s conclusion.

These reports, the Bureau said, aim to enhance safety by providing recommendations to prevent similar accidents in the future.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the victims affected by the Anam boat mishap”, Badeh said.

•Actor Junior Pope and make-up artist Abigail Frederick were among the victims of the drastic Anam boat accident