As scores die, several missing

Following the boat mishap which occurred on Sunday, 10 September, between the Jabba and Kainji dams when a boat carry over a 100 farmers capsized, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the recurring tragedy of fatal boat incidents across Nigeria.

In a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, on Tuesday in Abuja, Tinubu said government agencies would be held accountable for any regulatory or safety lapses, urging that comprehensive safety measures and enforcement must be carried out on boating activities in the country.

The president directed various government agencies, including law enforcement, maritime safety and transportation safety authorities to collaborate in identifying the causes of these unfortunate and preventable disasters.

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed that over 100 persons were on board the boat when the incident occurred., were from Gbajibo, Ekwa, and Yankyade communities, were on the way to their farms located on the other side of the River Niger.

While extending his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the President directs that various government agencies, including law enforcement, maritime safety and transportation safety authorities to collaborate closely in identifying the root causes of these unfortunate and preventable disasters.

“President Tinubu underscores his commitment to holding government agencies accountable for any regulatory or safety lapses and further instructs a comprehensive review of safety measures and strict enforcement of existing laws on boating activities in the country,” Ajuri Ngelale said.

Tinubu wished those injured in the incidences a most speedy recovery, assuring the affected families and communities of government’s continued support in this trying period.

“The President assures the affected families and communities of government’s continued support and his commitment to the prevention of such tragic incidents from occurring in the future,” the statement added.

Recall that a boat capsized in a river in Gurin of Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State with many people on board. Reports say 26 bodies were recovered while 44 are still missing when the boat capsized in a river between the Jebba and Kainji dams in Mokwa Local Government of Niger on Sunday.