Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) Management has issued a press statement regarding the unfortunate fire incident that occurred on one of its fleets at the Ipakodo Terminal in Ikorodu on Thursday.
According to Akeem Odusina, Director of the Public Affairs Unit, in a report to Lagos Panorama, “The Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) had a fire on one of its boats, Igbega Eko, at the Ipakodo Terminal in Ikorodu earlier today.”
“Preliminary reports indicate that the fire started about 6.45a.m. There were 19 passengers on board. The inferno started after passengers had boarded the boat to depart the terminal”.
“All passengers were rescued alive. Nine of them who, unfortunately, sustained burn injuries are receiving medical attention at the Ikorodu General Hospital and Vima Hospital. They will be treated free of charge as there is passenger insurance coverage in place”.
“Emergency protocols were promptly activated at the scene”.
“LAGFERRY sincerely appreciates all responders, Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), private boat operators, and other rescuers who worked tirelessly to contain the situation. We also commend the passengers for their cooperation during the evacuation”.
“A full-scale investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of the fire and prevent future occurrence”.
“In the meantime, additional safety measures and inspections will be reinforced across all our fleet to restate our commitment to safety on our waterways” Odusina assured Lagosians.
