By Kazeem Waris
The Nigerian Navy, working alongside local divers and members of the Abedigbene Fishing Community, has rescued seven of eight passengers involved in a boat mishap in the Abedigbene waters of Brass Local Government Area, Bayelsa State.
The incident, which occurred on November 5, 2026, involved a passenger boat travelling from Yenagoa to Akassa with eight persons on board.
The Navy disclosed the development on Saturday, November 7, through its Director of Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, who said the rescue operation followed a distress report from a local fisherman.
According to Folorunsho, personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Formoso, deployed at the Labrador Lagosgbene Houseboat, immediately mobilised to the scene and commenced search and rescue operations with the assistance of local divers and members of the host community.
Among those rescued were the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr Ebieri Jones, an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and five other passengers.
The survivors were subsequently taken to the houseboat, where they received first aid. Preliminary medical assessments indicated that none of them sustained visible injuries.
However, a police officer aboard the ill-fated boat remains missing, as the Navy and other rescue participants continue efforts to locate him.
Folorunsho disclosed that the Commissioner and the six other survivors were conveyed to Yenagoa on November 6 to reunite with their respective families.
He said the successful rescue operation underscored the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to maritime safety, the protection of lives and prompt response to emergencies within its area of responsibility.
The Navy spokesman also quoted the Commanding Officer of FOB Formoso as commending personnel involved in the operation for their swift response and professionalism.
The Commanding Officer equally acknowledged the invaluable contributions of local divers and members of the Abedigbene Fishing Community, whose support proved crucial to the rescue effort.
The Navy said the incident further highlighted the importance of cooperation between security agencies and coastal communities in enhancing maritime safety and protecting lives, particularly in riverine communities where passenger boats remain a major means of transportation.
Meanwhile, search and rescue operations are continuing to locate the missing police officer.
