Cross River Marine Chief Capt. Otu Ita Otu Reacts to Oron-Calabar Waterways Incident, Assures Safety Measures

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The Department of Marine Services in Cross River State has expressed deep concern over the recent incident that affected travellers on the Oron–Calabar waterways. The Special Adviser on Marine Services to Governor Bassey Otu, Capt. Otu Ita Otu, in a statement, reassured the public that safety and security remain the government’s top priority.

According to Akahi News, the incident sparked fresh debate about maritime safety and the need for stricter monitoring of water transport across the state. Families of those affected have been urged to remain calm, while authorities intensify rescue and security operations.

Swift Response to the Waterways Incident

Capt. Otu Ita Otu confirmed that the Department of Marine Services is collaborating with the Office of the State Security Adviser, Major General Obono (Rtd), to ensure prompt rescue and safety interventions. He explained that all available resources are being mobilised to address the situation and prevent a repeat of such occurrences.

In his words, “Our collective efforts are geared towards maintaining peaceful and safe sea transportation across our waterways. We are fully committed to achieving this through enhanced security measures and stricter safety protocols.”

Akahi News gathered that patrols are being reinforced and intelligence-sharing between security agencies has been scaled up to ensure confidence among waterway users.

Public Reassurance and Safety Measures

The Department of Marine Services has urged residents and transport operators to cooperate with the state’s maritime authorities by adhering strictly to safety guidelines. Travellers are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity around the waterways to relevant offices for immediate action.

Akahi News learnt that this call for vigilance forms part of a broader effort to enhance maritime security, particularly as the Oron–Calabar route serves thousands of commuters and traders daily.

The reassurance by Capt. Otu Ita Otu is seen as timely, especially as the Cross River government pushes for increased investment in the maritime sector. Analysts told Akahi News that without improved safety, the waterways could lose their economic potential.

Broader Implications for Cross River Maritime Sector

Observers note that the incident underscores the need for long-term reforms in Nigeria’s maritime safety framework. For Cross River, a state strategically located with multiple coastal access points, safe and reliable water transport remains critical for commerce, tourism, and community mobility.

Akahi News reports that the Otu administration has been working to reposition the maritime sector, including introducing modern safety infrastructure and expanding collaboration with national security agencies. Capt. Otu Ita Otu’s intervention aligns with this broader agenda.

While investigations into the incident are ongoing, Capt. Otu Ita Otu has reassured Cross River residents that the government is determined to safeguard lives and property on the waterways. His statement reflects both empathy for those affected and a clear commitment to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

For many, the response highlights the urgency of safety reforms across Nigeria’s maritime transport system. As Akahi News continues to monitor developments, residents are encouraged to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of ongoing rescue and security measures.

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