In a tragic event that occurred at the Calabar resort, news emerged on Saturday about the capsizing of a speedboat, leading to the disappearance of three students and the subsequent rescue of 11 others affiliated with the Nigeria Medical Students Association (NIMSA).
Confirming the distressing development, the Cross River State Police Command disclosed that the bodies of the three medical students involved in the Marina Resort boat mishap were discovered.
Addressing the media on Monday, the state Commissioner of Police, Gyogon Grimah, revealed that the recovered bodies included two males and one female.
“As many of you are aware, on Saturday, approximately two days ago, in the afternoon, an incident was reported at the Marina Resort here in Calabar, where a boat capsized. Three students drowned, and since then, we have been tirelessly engaged in rescue efforts, day and night. Today, I regretfully inform you that three bodies have been recovered,” stated CP Grimah.
According to reports, the passengers were enjoying a boat cruise when the unfortunate incident transpired around 3 pm. The medical students, who had gathered from various universities across the country to attend the NiMSA annual Health Week in Calabar, decided to explore the city and opted for a boat cruise at Marina Resort.
In response to the incident, the Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, issued an order on Sunday for a thorough investigation into the cruise boat mishap involving the medical students. The governor, through his Chief Press Secretary, Emmanuel Ogbeche, expressed deep sorrow over the situation, as three medical students participating in the Nigeria Medical Students Games were still missing.
He urged the security and rescue agencies, as well as local residents assisting in the search operation, to locate the missing students and reunite them with their families.
The Commissioner of Police revealed that the local residents, assisted by the marine police, recovered the bodies of the missing students. He further mentioned that the bodies had been transported to a preservation facility until the state government determines the next course of action.
When assigning blame for this tragic incident, we must consider multiple factors. Should we hold the students accountable for embarking on such an adventure without a lifeguard, fully aware that we are in the rainy season and such incidents are possible? Or should we place the blame on NIMSA executives, who could have implemented preventive measures to avoid such an occurrence or discouraged the students from undertaking a dangerous boat ride without a lifeguard?
While it is essential to show respect for the deceased, we cannot overlook the role the students played in this unfortunate event. They were aware of the risks of not having a lifeguard and their actions should serve as a reminder to everyone to always ensure a lifeguard accompanies them on a boat cruise.
