The Kogi State Government has expressed sadness over a boat accident on the River Niger which reportedly killed at least 26 people on Tuesday evening.
The victims were mostly traders from Ibaji Local Government Area who were on their way to Illushi Market in Edo State when the boat capsized.
In a statement, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described the incident as a painful loss. He said Governor Usman Ododo has sent his condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Ibaji.
“The government and people of Kogi State received with deep sadness the news of the boat mishap on the River Niger. This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and the people of Ibaji in this moment of grief,” the statement said.
Governor Ododo has directed the State Emergency Management Agency to work with local authorities to support the affected families. He also promised that the state will work with federal agencies to improve safety on waterways.
The government further advised riverine communities to always take safety seriously by avoiding overcrowding in boats and making use of life jackets.
Kogi govt laments as boat accident kill 26 persons in state