Senator Isah Jibrin Echocho of Kogi East has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Kogi State government and the families affected by the tragic boat mishap on the River Niger.
The unfortunate incident, involving approximately 200 market women, occurred while they were traveling from Kogi State to Niger State.
In a statement personally signed by the senator, Echocho expressed profound sympathy for the victims’ families, urging them to find strength in the face of this devastating loss. He also offered prayers for the repose of the departed souls, seeking eternal peace for those who lost their lives in the accident.
The National Inland Waterways Authority confirmed that the capsizing took place along the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger, a popular route for commercial transportation between Kogi and Niger states. While investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident, the tragedy has heightened concerns about the safety of waterway transportation in the region.
Senator Echocho drew attention to the increasing dangers posed by the waterway, stressing the urgent need for preventive measures.
In his statement, he emphasized that accidents along this route have become alarmingly frequent and called for immediate action by the relevant authorities to enhance safety protocols.
“The waterway connecting Kogi and Niger states has become increasingly perilous, and it is crucial that relevant authorities take immediate action to implement stronger safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future,” he stated.
Echocho urged the government to prioritize the safety of individuals who rely on water transport as a primary means of travel.
He advocated for improved infrastructure, better regulation, and the strict enforcement of safety measures to avert further loss of lives.
The senator also commiserated with the victims’ families, offering solidarity and reassurance that the state government would provide support to the injured and others affected by the disaster. He underscored the significance of community and government collaboration in aiding the healing process for those impacted.
The incident has caused widespread grief across Kogi State, prompting an outpouring of support from local leaders and citizens for the affected families.
It has also reignited calls for urgent improvements in the country’s water transportation safety standards.
Meanwhile, the Kogi State government has pledged to assist the victims’ families and collaborate with federal agencies to ensure adequate support for the injured and others impacted by the tragedy.
