The Benue State Government has rolled out strict safety measures to curb recurring boat accidents at the Buruku waterfront while making the use of life jackets compulsory, banning overloading and introducing an 8:00pm daily curfew on river operations.
The enforcement followed growing concerns over frequent loss of lives and property linked to unsafe ferry operations on the river, which currently serves as a temporary transport route pending the completion of an ongoing bridge project.
At least six students lost their lives while crossing the river back to school last week.
Announcing the measures at the river bank, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Dr. Joseph Har, said the decisions were outcomes of a high-level security meeting chaired by the Special Adviser on Security and External Liaison, Col. Alex Igbaya Anshingu (Rtd.).
He said ferry service was originally introduced to reduce travel time and transportation costs for residents and traders, while boosting local commerce.
However, poor maintenance of vessels, non-use of life jackets, overloading, and negligence by operators have turned the waterway into a major safety risk.
Dr. Har disclosed that, with immediate effect, all passengers and operators must wear life jackets, while boats are prohibited from carrying more than one vehicle at a time.
He added that overloading would no longer be tolerated and that all boat operations must stop by 8:00pm daily, with access roads on both river banks to be barricaded after the curfew.
He noted that full enforcement of the life jacket policy would commence on February 1, citing inadequate supply as a challenge.
According to him, previously donated life jackets were vandalised by former union executives, prompting an appeal to the Buruku Local Government and public-spirited individuals to support with fresh donations.
The security adviser also recommended the establishment of a joint enforcement team comprising the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the Community Policing Guard (CPG) to ensure compliance.
In their reactions, the Chairman of the Marine Union and the Tyoor Mbaapen welcomed the government’s intervention, admitting that previous community-led efforts to enforce safety standards were largely ineffective.
They expressed optimism that the involvement of security agencies would significantly reduce accidents.
The stakeholders commended Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia for prioritising public safety and offered prayers for his continued good health and effective leadership.
