Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has mourned the death of 27 traders who died in a boat mishap on River Niger at Gbajibo community, Kwara State over the weekend.
The governor also condoled the government and people of Niger State over the tragic boat mishap.
Some of the victims were also from Niger State.
AbdulRazak in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, described the incident as heartbreaking, saying the repeated failure to use safety gear on water journeys remains a serious concern.
“This is yet another painful reminder of why safety procedures must never be ignored.
“It is unacceptable that despite the government’s constant provision of life-saving gadgets, many still choose not to use them,” the governor lamented.
He expressed deep sympathy to the families affected and offered prayers for the repose of the souls of the victims.
“Our thoughts are with the bereaved families and the Niger State government at this difficult time.
“May God grant the victims eternal rest and give their loved ones the strength to bear the loss,” AbdulRazaq said.
He reiterated his earlier call on boat operators and passengers to prioritise safety, stressing that future tragedies can be averted if everyone plays their part.
Recalled that the 27 victims lost their lives in a boat mishap at the Gbajibo community of Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State.
The victims were returning from a weekly market in neighbouring Niger State late Thursday night when their overloaded boat capsized on the River Niger.
A survivor attributed the accident to overloading and night travel—two common but unsafe practices in the area.
Chairman of Kaiama Local Government, Hon. Abdullah Danladi, confirmed the incident on Sunday.
He later led a delegation to condole with the affected families, describing the incident as a painful loss to the entire local government.
“We have met with the bereaved families and assured them of government’s commitment to preventing a recurrence,” he stated.
Danladi announced plans to set up a committee to enforce the mandatory use of life jackets and prohibit night-time travel on the river.
Also reacting, the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Omar, expressed grief over the tragedy, calling it both unfortunate and preventable.
He urged all stakeholders to take safety regulations more seriously to avoid further calamities.
Kwara North’s riverine communities have witnessed repeated boat mishaps in recent years, often linked to weak enforcement of water transport safety rules.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
