Siblings Drown in Boat Capsize Incident in Rivers State

On Saturday, a tragic incident occurred in Rivers State when a boat carrying seven passengers capsized, resulting in the drowning of two siblings, Mekalachi Gogochuri and Rejoice Gogochuri. Their elder brother, Abraham Gogochuri, reported that they were returning home from work when the accident happened while crossing the river near Aliya Bridge, where a construction company was operating.

The boat was described as being in poor condition, lacking life jackets, which contributed to the fatalities. Local residents have expressed their frustration over the unsafe transport conditions, particularly following the collapse of a local wooden bridge that has not been rebuilt, forcing them to rely on unsafe boat transport.

The Ahoada Police Division is investigating the incident, and the driver of the boat has been arrested. The traditional monarch of the Ekpey ethnic nation, Kelvin Ngozi Anugwo, expressed deep sorrow over the loss and called for unity in the community during this difficult time.