The National Inland Waterways Authority’s Police Command has brought two suspects before a Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lokoja for their alleged roles in a boat mishap that occurred on November 29, 2024. The suspects, Musa Dangana and Yakubu Dangana, are facing charges of conspiracy and negligence that led to the tragic incident.
According to reports from the police, the Area Manager of NIWA Lokoja, Engr. Titus Adoga, alerted the authorities following the mishap. It has been alleged that the defendants, who co-own a commercial wooden boat, transported 60 passengers from Kupa to Kacha Market without providing life jackets or assessing the prevailing weather conditions. Despite warnings against such practices, they proceeded with the journey, which culminated in the boat capsizing after hitting a submerged log, resulting in casualties.
Prosecutor Mr. Gabriel Otowu detailed the investigation that led to the defendants’ arrest, highlighting their failure to exercise due diligence. The defendants entered a plea of not guilty to the charges, which include criminal conspiracy and negligent conduct, violations of Kogi state penal code and the Inland Waterways Transportation code 2023.
In response to a bail application from the defense counsel, Mr. Zakari Useni, Chief Magistrate Mr. Abdullahi Musa-Mopa granted bail to the defendants in the sum of N100,000 each, requiring that a civil servant on Level 14 from Lokoja serves as their surety. The case has been adjourned to March 20, 2025, for further proceedings.
As Innocent Orok reported, this incident underscores the critical need for adherence to safety regulations in marine transport to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Stay tuned to Newspot Nigeria for updates on this developing news.
Source: Roam News
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