5 dead, 3 medical students missing as boat capsizes in Calabar

In a devastating turn of events, a speed boat capsized near Calabar, resulting in the loss of five lives. The incident unfolded on Saturday as the ill-fated boat was en route to Oron in Akwa Ibom state, leaving the local community in shock.

According to reports, a total of 20 individuals embarked on the boat at the Marina Resort in Calabar. Sadly, the overcrowded vessel encountered treacherous conditions, leading to its tragic overturning.

Swift action was taken by the eastern naval command, who played a pivotal role in the rescue efforts.

Remarkably, 14 individuals were successfully rescued from the water, thanks to the courageous efforts of the navy.

A senior naval officer provided details on their involvement, expressing, “The navy participated in the rescue mission; we rescued at least 14 of them.”

Although the exact location where the incident occurred was not disclosed due to the urgency of the rescue operation, the naval command is expected to release an official statement in due course.

Regrettably, three medical students who were aboard the ill-fated boat remain missing.

Emmanuel Ogbeche, the chief press secretary to the state governor, conveyed the governor’s deep concern and promptly ordered an investigation into the tragic incident.

It was revealed that the medical students had journeyed to Calabar to participate in the Nigeria Medical Students Games.

Preliminary reports suggest that the boat may have been overloaded, potentially contributing to its unfortunate capsizing.