Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has taken decisive action in response to a recent boat accident on the Calabar waterways, News About Nigeria reports.
The governor has placed a temporary ban on all activities at Marina Resort and ordered a thorough review of safety standards for boats operating in the area.
These measures were communicated through a press statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Emmanuel Ogbeche.
Governor Otu has expressed deep concern about the safety conditions at Marina Resort and emphasized the need to assess the standards of all boats operating in the Calabar waterways.
In light of the incident, the governor has made it clear that those found responsible for compromising safety will face severe consequences.
Furthermore, the governor has scheduled a meeting between cruise boat operators and the State Tourism Bureau to address the issue.
The objective is to ensure the safety of passengers and prevent any actions that could hinder the state’s objectives of promoting business, tourism, and a peaceful environment.
The boat accident at Marina Resort has left Governor Otu saddened and alarmed, not just as a governor but also as a parent.
The overcrowding of the boat and the absence of life jackets for some passengers have raised serious concerns.
The governor has reiterated his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and creating an environment conducive to various activities.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Medical Students Association (NIMSA) has strongly criticized the management of Marina Resort for their negligence and lack of competence, holding them responsible for the tragic boat accident.
The national president of NIMSA, Egim Egbe, has expressed disappointment and distress over the incident, considering it an avoidable tragedy that has affected the medical student community nationwide.
The search and rescue efforts are ongoing, with three medical students from NIMSA still missing.
These students, who were participating in NIMSA’s annual Health Week in Calabar, had embarked on a boat cruise at Marina Resort. The boat capsized in the afternoon, leading to the unfortunate loss of lives.
Among the missing individuals are three medical students, two from Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria and one from the University of Uyo in Akwa Ibom State. The situation has caused great anguish and concern among the medical student community as they await updates on the search and rescue operations.
