The National Inland Waterways Authority has revealed that the tragic boat accident that claimed the life of Nollywood actor, Johnpaul Odonwodo, known as Junior Pope, alongside others, was the result of negligence, ignorance, and failure to follow proper safety procedures.
According to The PUNCH, this was disclosed by NIWA’s Managing Director, Bola Oyebamiji, during a safety campaign in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Thursday.
Speaking through the NIWA Area Manager, Suleiman A. Nicholas, Oyebamiji explained that the passengers, including Junior Pope, failed to follow standard safety protocols before embarking on their journey.
“The boat mishap that led to the death of Junior Pope and others was caused by ignorance. They did not follow the proper process; they just went to the waterfront, jumped into the boat, and moved,” he said.
He further revealed that the passengers were seen demonstrating inside the boat, distracting the operator, which led to the boat hitting a wooden object, causing it to capsize.
“Unfortunately, none of the passengers were wearing life jackets, making their deaths avoidable. May their souls rest in peace,” Oyebamiji added.
The fatal incident, which took place in April 2024 on the Anam River, saw the loss of four Nollywood actors, including Junior Pope.
The actors were on their way to a filming location when their boat capsized. Their bodies were recovered, and the late actor was laid to rest in his hometown of Ukehe, Enugu State, in May.
During the safety sensitization campaign, NIWA emphasized the importance of boat registration and the use of life jackets.
The agency warned boat operators and passengers that operating on waterways without a life jacket would lead to severe consequences, including possible prosecution. “No life jacket, no travel. That is the directive we’ve issued nationwide,” Oyebamiji declared.
He also stressed the need for boats to be registered with NIWA to avoid arrest and seizure by NIWA Police. “Boat registration is a prerequisite for ensuring the safety of both passengers and cargo on the waterways,” he stated.
The event, which brought together boat operators, community leaders, and residents from Anambra and Delta states, included a demonstration on the River Niger showcasing the life-saving importance of wearing life jackets.
