By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Navy has rescued the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr Ebieri Jones, and six other passengers following a boat mishap in Abedigbene waters, Brass Local Government Area of the state.
The incident occurred on November 5, 2026, when a passenger boat travelling from Yenagoa to Akassa reportedly had eight persons on board. However, one passenger, identified as a police officer, remains missing as search and rescue operations continue.
According to an official statement signed by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the rescue operation was carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO in collaboration with local divers and members of Abedigbene Fishing Community.
The Navy said its personnel, deployed at Labrador Lagosgbene Houseboat, swiftly mobilised to the scene following a distress report from a local fisherman and commenced search and rescue operations with the support of community members.
Those rescued included the Bayelsa State Trade Commissioner, an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and five other passengers.
The survivors were taken to the naval houseboat, where they received first aid, with preliminary assessments indicating that none had sustained visible injuries.
However, the Navy disclosed that a police officer who was among the eight occupants of the boat remained unaccounted for, assuring that efforts were ongoing to locate the missing passenger.
The statement added that Dr Jones and the six other survivors were conveyed to Yenagoa on November 6 to reunite with their respective families.
Commending the swift response, the Commanding Officer of FOB FORMOSO praised the naval personnel for their professionalism and dedication during the rescue operation, while acknowledging the invaluable support provided by local divers and members of the host community.
The Navy said the operation underscored its commitment to maritime safety, the protection of lives and prompt response to emergencies within its area of responsibility.
It also highlighted the importance of collaboration between security agencies and coastal communities in strengthening emergency response capabilities and safeguarding lives across Nigeria’s waterways.
