Kogi State Government said it has received with deep sadness, the news of the boat mishap which occurred on River Niger, Tuesday evening.
The mishap involved traders traveling from Ibaji to Illushi Market in Edo State.
In a statement by the State’s Commissioner of Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the State government expressed regret that the unfortunate incident claimed the lives of not less than 26 passengers, describing as heartbreaking loss.
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According to Fanwo, Governor Usman Ododo assured that the State Government will intensify ongoing efforts in collaboration with federal agencies to improve safety measures on the waterways to prevent a recurrence.
He, however, called on the people, especially riverine communities, to always prioritise safety by avoiding overloading and by using life jackets and other precautionary measures whenever they travel by water.
“The Government and people of Kogi State received with deep sadness the news of the boat mishap which occurred on the River Niger, involving traders traveling from Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State to Ilushi market in Edo State.
“Reports indicate that the unfortunate incident has allegedly claimed the lives of not less than 26 passengers. This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, as well as the entire Ibaji Local Government Area, in this moment of grief.
“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, has expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and has directed relevant agencies, including the State Emergency Management Agency, to work with local authorities to provide immediate support and relief to those affected.
“The Governor further assured that the State Government will intensify ongoing efforts in collaboration with federal agencies to improve safety measures on our waterways in order to prevent a recurrence of such a tragedy.
“We call on our people, especially riverine communities, to always prioritize safety by avoiding overloading and by using life jackets and other precautionary measures whenever they travel by water,” he said.
He expressed the commitment of the state government to support the people of Ibaji LGA through this difficult time.
