Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo has emphasised the urgent need to improve safety measures on the country’s waterways.
Gatekeepers News reports that his comments follow a tragic incident on Friday when a boat carrying over 200 passengers capsized in the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger.
In the aftermath of the disaster, local divers conducted rescue operations that successfully recovered eight bodies. Among those aboard the boat were traders and farmers traveling to Katcha for the weekly market, highlighting the socioeconomic impact of the tragedy.
Governor Ododo expressed his sorrow over the loss of life, particularly given that many of the victims were women, petty traders, and artisans who play vital roles in the state’s economy. His statement, conveyed by his media adviser Ismaila Isah, offered condolences to the bereaved families and pledged government support for those injured in the accident.
The governor voiced concern about the escalating danger of the waterway linking Kogi and Niger states due to repeated boat accidents.
He urged relevant authorities to implement necessary safety measures to mitigate risks associated with water transportation.
Ododo also praised the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) for its efforts in search and rescue operations while stressing the importance of collaborative actions to prevent such tragedies in the future and improve emergency response capabilities.
