Tragedy struck earlier today at the Yenagoa waterside as a commercial boat scheduled to depart for Akassa was engulfed by fire, destroying goods worth several millions of naira. The incident occurred just hours before its planned departure this Thursday afternoon.Eyewitnesses at the scene said the boat was fully loaded with goods including food supplies, building materials, and other essential items intended for traders and residents in Akassa, a riverine community in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.At the time of filing this report, the exact cause of the fire remains unknown. However, bystanders suspect it may have been triggered by a fuel leak or electrical malfunction, though authorities have not yet confirmed any of these possibilities.Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident. The boat crew and loaders reportedly escaped unharmed after noticing smoke billowing from the engine area before the fire rapidly spread.Local security agents and officials from the Bayelsa State Fire Service arrived after the boat had already been reduced to ashes, leaving traders devastated and calling for increased safety measures at loading points.A boat owner who preferred to remain anonymous expressed frustration, saying: “This is a heavy loss. People have lost their entire investment, and many of these traders rely on daily earnings to survive.”As investigations continue, affected business owners and community members are urging the state government and the Niger Delta Ministry to step in with relief materials and a long-term plan to ensure safety in water transportation.More updates to follow as the story develops.
