By Didimoko A. Didimoko
Disaster was averted on the Bukuma River in Rivers State on Tuesday as the Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Pathfinder, rescued 99 traders from a local market boat during a collision with a barge in Degema Local Government Area of the state.
Eyewitness accounts of the incident indicated that but for the swift intervention of the military personnel, the dozens of victims would have died.
The boat, known as ‘Blood of Jesus,’ was making its usual journey from Port Harcourt to Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, carrying both passengers and valuable wares when the collision occurred.
Our source said the collision with the barge caused significant damage to the boat, leaving the passengers stranded in the water, but coordinated rescue efforts of the Navy ensured that no lives were lost, and most of the goods were recovered.
Commodore Cajethan Aniaku, the Commander of NNS Pathfinder, provided details of the incident in a statement issued by Lt. Commander Bridget Bebia, the Base Information Officer. The crash occurred around 10:55 AM, in the Tuma area, approximately 300 meters from Naval Security Station (NSS) 035 along the Bukuma River.
NNS Pathfinder quickly mobilised its personnel, who were supported by four other Navy gunboats, launching a rapid search and rescue mission. Despite the difficult conditions, they successfully rescued all 99 passengers.
“The crew acted swiftly and efficiently, ensuring that all passengers were rescued and no lives were lost,” Commodore Aniaku said. “Their professionalism in the face of danger was outstanding.”
Passengers who were rescued expressed immense relief.
Among them was a mother travelling with her child, who described the experience as overwhelming but was grateful for the Navy’s quick response. Many passengers had been carrying goods for sale, and most of their cargo was successfully recovered.
Commodore Aniaku praised the Navy personnel for their bravery, saying their quick action not only saved lives but also preserved valuable property. He concluded by assuring that the Nigerian Navy, under Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, remains committed to ensuring the safety of all those navigating the country’s waters.
