The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) said it has begun a probe into the fatal boat accident involving Nollywood actor Paul Odonwodo (popularly called Junior Pope), and other crew members including Abigail Frederick, Precious Oforum and Joseph Anointing on Anam river in Anambra state, few days ago to “prevent similar accidents in the future.”
Recall that a speedboat, carrying 12 film members with a boat operator, reportedly crashed into a fishing canoe leading to five deaths.
The bureau, which is responsible for investigating transportation accidents, said its investigators are on site to ascertain cause of the disaster.
The Director general of the bureau, Captain Alex Badeh, said this in a statement made public by the director of public affairs and consumer protection, Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji. The bureau said it will collaborate with the marine police section of Anambra police command, maritime authorities, and industry experts.
Oladeji noted the scope of the investigation will include examination of the wreckage from both vessels, interviews with surviving crew, and eyewitnesses, review of operational procedures for the commercial speedboat, analysis of weather and environmental conditions.
The statement read “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.
“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.
These reports aim to enhance safety by providing recommendations to prevent similar accidents in the future.”
