Government Delegation Visits Family Of Victims Of Boat Mishap At Mmiata Anam
By Felix Igboanugo
A delegation of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has paid a condolence visit to the bereaved family of a victim of Anambra boat mishap who hailed from Mmiata Anam in Anambra West LGA.
The delegation led by officials of Anambra State Government paid the visit to also have firsthand insight into the tragic incident, aimed to ascertain what transpired, and understand the immediate needs of those affected.
Addressing the bereaved family, Gov. Chukuwma Soludo commiserated with them and assured that government would do everything in its power to support them.
The governor represented by the Transition Committee Chairman of Anambra West, Mr. Felix Ikechi, presented financial assistance to the family to help cover the expenses incured.
He also assured that government would take appropriate measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Governor Soludo further assured that government would not relent in putting in place, policies and programmes that would enhance maritime safety, improved emergency response mechanisms, as well as raise awareness among the public about the importance of adhering to safety protocols while traveling on water.
The Zonal Director, National Emergency Management Agency, Southeast Region, Mrs. Ngozi Echeazuo who spoke through Mr. Nnanyelugo Ezeani, said the visit was to ascertain the extent of loss suffered, and observed that one family was affected.
She expressed hope that concerns shown by government at federal, state and local levels would go a long way in giving the bereaved family the needed courage to put the incident behind and move on with life.
Mrs. Echeazuo assured that stakeholders meeting would be convened to discuss concerns raised and proffer solutions, including ensuring enforcement of wearing of life-saving jacket while traveling on water.
On his part, the Executive Secretary, Anambra State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, Chief Paul Odenigbo, informed that government would be properly briefed based on information gathered for possible assistance, just as proper investigations would continue to help forestall future occurrence.
The father of the deceased, Mr. Sunday Nnalue, engulfed in emotions, narrated how he lost his two sons Israel, aged 12; and Onyeka, aged 10; though his wife Gloria, was fortunate to survive the incident, and thanked government for the concerns toward him and his family at the difficult moment.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved family, Chief Matthias Emeka, expressed gratitude to the Governor saying that the visit shower that his administration cares for it citizenry.
He, however, urged that urgent attention be given the waterways; just as it is done to the road, as well as provision of healthcare services to riverine areas.
