By Mary Bassey, House of Assembly Correspondent
As hearts continue to pour out over the Marina Resort Calabar boat mishap that led to the death of three medical students last week Saturday, a solemn atmosphere darkened the Cross River State House of Assembly.
At a plenary held on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, in the Assembly Chamber, members observed a moment of silence for the three students – Aisha Celestine Ogwu, Mustaphar Tukur, and Hamza Kabir who all lost their lives.
The House while expressing condolence to the victims’ families and the University of Calabar community, noted that the incident was preventable.
Led by the Speaker of the House, Honorable Hon. Elvert Ayambem, they also resolve to assist the police, relevant agencies, and the State government with any investigation to unravel the root cause.
The Speaker said: “It is due to the negligence of the boating company,” adding: “It is wrong to stock 14 students into a boat which was meant for 10 people and then not provide them with life jackets.”
Hon. Elvert who was cold but angered by the incident said the management of Marina Resort should be made to face serious sanctions to serve as a deterrent to others.
In his words: “I am deeply pained and saddened by the news of the demise of these promising students. The pain and grief in the hearts of their parents and loved ones cannot be assuaged by words. I appeal to all who have been affected by the loss to take solace in God. As the legislative arm of the government, we will support any executive action taken to investigate the issue,” he said.
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