Tinubu Commiserates with Kogi over Ibaji Boat Mishap, Pleads with Water Operators
*State govt mourns
Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the government and the people of Kogi State over a boat accident at Ibaji Local Government, on Tuesday, leading to loss of lives.
According to reports, the victims of the tragedy were traders travelling from Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State to Ilushi market in Edo State.
The president, in a release by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed profound sorrow at the unfortunate incident, describing it as shocking and unfortunate, especially as the victims were embarking on their legitimate quest to make a decent living.
Tinubu commended the first responders at the accident scene and urged federal, state, and local emergency responders to step up their efforts to provide needed assistance to survivors and victims.
The president, however, urged operators of water transportation to prioritise safety over financial considerations in their daily business.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed and quick recovery for the injured.
Meanwhile, the Kogi State Government has expressed shock and deep sadness over the boat mishap which killed no fewer than twenty six passengers on the River Niger in Ibaji.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communications,Kingsley Fanwo, in Lokoja yesterday.
“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.
“The Kogi State State Governor, Usman Ododo 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 the people 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 prioritise safety by avoiding overloading and by using life jackets and other precautionary measures whenever they travel by water.
‘”The Government of Kogi State stands with the people of Ibaji LGA and will continue to support them through this difficult time,” the commissioner said.
