Kehinde Fajobi
The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor, has been identified as one of the survivors of a boat accident that claimed five lives in Delta State on Tuesday.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, his Chief Press Secretary, Nkem Nwaeke, revealed that the speaker is still recovering from the shock of the tragic incident, which occurred on Friday, November 22, 2024, along the Bennett Island River in Warri South-West Local Government Area.
“Mr Speaker is deeply saddened by the tragic boat mishap that occurred over the weekend along Bennett Island River in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, in which he was involved but miraculously survived,” the statement read.
The accident, which happened as the speaker was returning to Asaba via Warri after an engagement with constituents, reportedly occurred when the boat he was in nearly collided with another vessel.
“Unfortunately, five precious lives were lost in the incident,” Nwaeke stated.
The statement added that six individuals sustained injuries, and 20 others are still missing.
“His heart goes out to the families of the deceased, and he prays that God grants them the strength to bear these irreparable losses,” the statement continued.
“Mr Speaker is still in shock over the incident and can only imagine the pain and grief that the families of the victims must be going through.”
Guwor expressed gratitude to God for sparing his life and the lives of other survivors. He also commended the quick response of rescue teams and medical personnel.
The speaker called on authorities to thoroughly investigate the accident to prevent future occurrences.
“Once again, Mr Speaker commiserates with the families of the victims and prays for the repose of their souls,” the statement concluded.