Passengers Injured as Lagos Ferry Catches Fire On V.I. Trip

A Lagos State ferry, Igbega Eko, suddenly burst into flames while en route to Victoria Island on Thursday morning, leaving several passengers injured and scrambling for safety. The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) confirmed the incident, stating that emergency teams were deployed to contain the blaze, though its cause remains unknown.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion before flames engulfed the vessel. The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) later disclosed that four passengers sustained minor injuries and are receiving medical treatment.

In an official statement, LASWA said the fire broke out around 6:45 AM at the Ipakodo Ferry Terminal in Ikorodu. Emergency responders, including LASWA and LAGFERRY personnel, swiftly evacuated all passengers and crew.

“Preliminary investigations into the cause are ongoing in collaboration with relevant stakeholders,” LASWA stated, reassuring the public that ferry operations continue as scheduled with reinforced safety measures.

Authorities have pledged to implement additional fire prevention protocols across Lagos waterways and will provide updates as the probe progresses.