- Safiu Kehinde
President Bola Tinubu has mourned the victims of tragic boat mishap in Kogi State.
NPO earlier Reported that the incident which occurred on the River Niger already claimed 20 lives with several others still missing.
According to an eyewitness, the fully loaded boat had departed Onugwa community in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi state en route to Ilushi market in Edo state for October 1st celebration before it capsized midway.
Reacting to the development, Tinubu in a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed his sadness over the shocking and unfortunate incident.
The President extended his condolences to the government and people of Kogi state.
While condemning first responders for their intervention, Tinubu urged urges operators of water transportation to prioritise safety over financial considerations in their daily business.
The statement read; “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu condoles with the government and people of Kogi State on the sad incident of a boat accident at Ibaji Local Government, which occurred 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.
“President Tinubu expresses 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.
“The President commends the first responders at the accident scene and urges federal, state, and local emergency responders to step up their efforts to provide needed assistance to survivors and victims.
“President Tinubu once again urges operators of water transportation to prioritise safety over financial considerations in their daily business.
“He prays for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed and quick recovery for the injured.”