The Anambra House of Assembly passed a motion on Tuesday mandating the compulsory use of life jackets on the state’s waterways. This decision followed a motion moved under Matters of Urgent Public Importance by Mr. Ikenna Ofodeme, the Majority Leader and representative of the Ekwusigo constituency.
Ofodeme highlighted that numerous lives had been lost due to accidents on waterways, as passengers and operators often neglect to use life jackets. He pointed out the significant risks posed by the lack of regulations enforcing the use of life jackets, emphasizing the importance of government intervention.
“Section 14 (2) (b) of the 1999 Constitution stipulates that the protection of life and property remains the primary purpose of government,” Ofodeme stated. “The safety of citizens utilizing water transportation is of paramount importance. Therefore, adequate provisions and distribution of certified life jackets must be made available to all maritime businesses, with strict enforcement mechanisms to ensure proper usage by passengers and operators alike. Additionally, public awareness campaigns should educate citizens on the importance of wearing life jackets during water transportation and the potential consequences of non-compliance.”
Supporting the motion, Mr. Golden Iloh, representing Ihiala Constituency II, noted that such regulations would prevent accidents, minimize casualties, and foster a culture of responsible water travel. Mr. Noble Igwe, representing Ogbaru Constituency I, also backed the motion, stating it was essential to protect the lives of residents and maritime business operators.
The Speaker of the House, Dr. Somtochukwu Udeze, emphasized the government’s commitment to the safety of lives and property. “The state Assembly calls on the state Governor to direct the Commissioner for Transportation and other relevant agencies to enforce the compulsory use of life jackets on all waterways in the state to ensure the safety of lives,” he said.
This development comes barely a month after a tragic incident in which about five persons, including renowned Nollywood actor Paul Odonwodo (popularly known as Junior Pope), Abigail Frederick, Precious Oforum, and Joseph Anointing, lost their lives in the Anam River, Anambra State.
