On Thursday, April 3, 2025, a dramatic and alarming incident unfolded at the Ipakodo Ferry Terminal in Ikorodu, Lagos, as a LAGFERRY vessel, “Igbega Eko,” caught fire while preparing to depart for Victoria Island. The fire, which occurred around 6:45 AM, resulted in nine individuals being injured, including passengers, LASWA personnel, and LagFerry staff. Despite the chaos, emergency responders acted swiftly to evacuate all passengers and crew members safely.
Incident Details
The LAGFERRY vessel, “Igbega Eko,” was carrying 19 passengers when it suddenly burst into flames. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest that the incident might have been triggered by an explosion on board. The sudden blast caused panic among passengers, with some reportedly jumping into the water to escape the inferno.
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) confirmed that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated, thanks to the prompt response of emergency services. LASWA’s emergency response team worked closely with LAGFERRY personnel, other boat operators, and first responders to manage the situation effectively.
Injuries and Medical Response
Initially, reports indicated that four passengers sustained minor injuries and were receiving medical attention. However, the injury toll later rose to nine, with six individuals being treated at the General Hospital in Ikorodu and three others receiving stable treatment at a private hospital. According to LASWA, all injured individuals are showing significant improvement, and no life-threatening conditions have been reported.
LASWA is fully committed to supporting the affected individuals and their families during this time. The authority is working closely with medical teams to ensure complete recovery and is conducting comprehensive safety reviews to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Investigation and Safety Measures
The cause of the fire is still unknown, but LASWA has commenced a thorough investigation in collaboration with LAGFERRY and other stakeholders. The agency emphasized that safety is its utmost priority and is committed to implementing any necessary recommendations to enhance fire prevention measures throughout the Lagos waterways.
Despite the incident, LASWA assured the public that all safety protocols remain intact, and ferry operations are proceeding as scheduled. The agency encouraged passengers to stay calm and adhere to safety guidelines while commuting via water transport.
Public Reaction and Support
The incident has raised concerns about safety on Lagos waterways, but the swift response of emergency services has been widely commended. The public has been cooperative during the incident, and LASWA acknowledged this support in its statement.
Background and Context
This incident is not the first fire-related incident on Lagos waterways. In November 2023, a commercial boat caught fire at a loading point in Ikorodu due to an electrical spark during ignition. Such incidents highlight the need for continuous safety assessments and improvements in fire prevention measures.
Conclusion
The fire incident on the LAGFERRY vessel “Igbega Eko” serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols and emergency preparedness on waterways. While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the swift response of emergency services and the commitment of LASWA to enhance safety measures are reassuring steps towards ensuring the safety of commuters in Lagos.
As investigations continue, it is crucial for stakeholders to work together to identify the root cause of the incident and implement necessary changes to prevent future occurrences. The support for the injured and their families is also a priority, reflecting the commitment of LASWA and other involved parties to the well-being of those affected.
In the meantime, ferry operations continue as scheduled, with LASWA urging passengers to remain calm and follow safety guidelines while using the waterways. The incident underscores the importance of vigilance and cooperation in maintaining safety on Lagos waterways.
