Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has issued a vital advisory to residents of riverine communities, urging them to prioritize the use of life jackets when boarding boats. The governor also emphasized the importance of avoiding overcrowded vessels and night travels.
This crucial advice comes in the wake of a tragic boat mishap that claimed the lives of 103 individuals in communities bordering Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State and Kwara State.
Expressing his shock and concern over the disaster, Governor Bago stated, “This is heartbreaking and sympathetic, but as people who believe in the will of Allah, we cannot question His actions. We will rather accept it and remain steadfast in Him.”
The governor went on to commend the Mokwa Local Government Council chairman and the acting Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) for their swift response and proactive measures in rescuing the victims.
The tragic incident occurred when a boat carrying wedding guests capsized. The victims, who were returning from Egboti community in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State to neighboring communities in Kwara State, embarked on their journey between the hours of 2 am and 3 am.
The affected communities, comprising Ebu, Dzaka, Para, and Kpada, all fall under the jurisdiction of the Patigi Emirate Council in Kwara State.
Presently, 33 lifeless bodies have been recovered, while the ongoing rescue mission continues unabated.
