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Fishermen in Twon Brass, Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, have been placed on alert following a strong warning from the Nigerian Navy. The navy has cautioned all operators of engine boats to stop driving at high speed within the creeks, saying reckless movement on the waterways has already caused several boat accidents.
According to reports from the area, many fishing boats have been hit and sunk by fast-moving engine boats in recent weeks. These incidents have put lives at risk and destroyed fishing equipment that families depend on for survival. The navy says this dangerous trend must stop immediately.
Why the Navy Issued the Warning
The decision by the Nigerian Navy to issue a warning to fishermen and engine boat operators in Twon Brass did not come without reason. In recent times, the waterways of Brass LGA have recorded a growing number of accidents caused mainly by speeding engine boats. These incidents have raised serious safety concerns, especially for fishermen who spend long hours on the creeks carrying out their daily activities.
The creeks in Twon Brass are naturally narrow and winding, making them unsuitable for high-speed movement. Fishermen usually operate slowly while setting nets, checking traps, or transporting their catch back to shore. When an engine boat passes through these same waters at high speed, the powerful waves it produces can easily destabilize smaller fishing boats. In some cases, the impact of these waves alone is enough to cause a canoe or wooden boat to overturn, throwing occupants into the water.
Another major factor that pushed the navy to act is poor visibility, especially in the early morning and late at night. Many fishermen begin work before sunrise, while others return from fishing after dark. At these times, it becomes difficult for boat drivers to clearly see fishing nets, floating markers, or small boats ahead. When engine boats move too fast under such conditions, the risk of collision increases sharply. Reports from the area indicate that some boats have already been damaged or sunk because their operators had no time to react before a fast-moving vessel approached.
The navy also observed that some young boat operators treat the creeks like open highways, competing with one another in speed without considering the danger involved. This reckless behavior not only threatens fishermen but also endangers passengers, traders, and even the boat drivers themselves. Once an accident happens on water, rescue becomes difficult, especially in deep or muddy areas of the creek.
Furthermore, the navy is concerned about the economic impact of these accidents. Fishing remains a major source of income for families in Twon Brass. When boats sink or nets are destroyed, entire households suffer. Children’s school fees may go unpaid, and families may struggle to feed themselves. By issuing this warning, the navy aims to prevent further losses and protect the livelihoods of local fishermen.
In essence, the warning is a preventive measure. It is meant to reduce accidents before they happen, promote discipline on the waterways, and remind all users that safety must come before speed. The navy believes that with proper caution and cooperation from boat operators, the creeks of Brass LGA can remain safe for everyone who depends on them daily.
Fishermen Suffer the Most
Among all those who use the creeks of Twon Brass, fishermen are the ones who feel the impact of speeding engine boats the most. While passengers and traders may suffer delays or minor damage when accidents happen, fishermen often lose everything they worked for in a single moment. Their boats, nets, and engines are not just tools; they are their only means of survival.
In many recent cases, fishing canoes have been hit or overturned by fast-moving engine boats. When this happens, fishing nets are torn apart, traps are swept away by strong waves, and engines sink into the muddy creek. Replacing these items is not easy. A standard fishing net can cost a large amount of money, and an outboard engine costs even more. For most local fishermen, such equipment is bought through years of savings or borrowed money. Losing them in an accident means starting life all over again from nothing.
Beyond the financial loss, there is also the danger to human life. Fishermen often work alone or in small groups, sometimes far away from the shore. When their boats capsize, they may struggle to swim, especially if the water is deep or if they are injured. In some situations, help does not arrive on time. This constant fear has made many fishermen uneasy about going to the creek, yet fishing remains their only source of income.
Families also suffer when these accidents occur. A fisherman who loses his boat or net cannot go to work the next day. This means no food on the table and no money for school fees or medical needs. Wives and children are forced to depend on neighbors or relatives for support. What should be a small accident on water quickly turns into a serious family crisis.
Community elders have also expressed concern that repeated accidents are discouraging young people from taking fishing seriously. Instead of seeing fishing as a stable livelihood, they now see it as risky and unsafe. This threatens the long-standing fishing culture of the area, which has been passed down from generation to generation.
This is why many fishermen welcomed the warning from the Nigerian Navy. They believe stricter control on engine boat speed will help reduce accidents and protect their lives and property. For them, the issue is not just about traffic on the creek, it is about survival, dignity, and the future of their families. Slowing down on the water could mean the difference between a safe return home and a tragic loss.
What the Navy Wants Boat Operators to Do
The navy’s message is simple and clear:
- Engine boat operators should reduce speed when passing through fishing areas.
- Boat drivers must remain alert and watch for fishing nets and small boats.
- Night travel should be done with extra caution.
- Anyone caught driving recklessly may face sanctions or arrest.
The navy also urged community leaders and boat unions to help educate their members. They said safety on the waterways is a shared responsibility.
A Call for Community Cooperation
Beyond enforcement, the navy is appealing for cooperation from residents of Brass LGA. They want fishermen and boat operators to see themselves as partners, not enemies. Everyone uses the creek, and everyone’s life is important.
Community leaders are expected to help pass the message to young boat drivers, many of whom are known for speeding. If the warning is ignored, the navy may increase patrols in the creeks.
Residents believe this step is necessary because the waterways are becoming busier with more commercial activity. Without rules and discipline, accidents will only increase.
Safety First on Brass Waterways
Water transport is the main means of movement in Twon Brass and nearby communities. It connects people to markets, schools, and hospitals. But without safety, this lifeline can turn deadly.
The navy’s warning serves as a reminder that speed on water can be just as dangerous as speed on the road. A single careless move can lead to loss of life.
As fishermen return to the creeks daily to earn their living, they hope this directive will bring peace of mind and fewer accidents.
Final Thoughts
The warning from the navy is timely and important. It shows concern for the safety of fishermen and other waterway users in Brass LGA. If engine boat operators obey this instruction, many lives and properties can be saved.
All residents are encouraged to respect this directive and report reckless boat driving when they see it. A safer creek means a stronger community.
For more local news and updates from Brass and Bayelsa State, visit https://brassinsight.com.ng.
