Emmanuel Thomas I Tuesday, June 13, 2023
KWARA, Nigeria – Not less than 100 people, mainly from Patigi returning from a wedding party in Niger State have drowned when the boat conveying them capsized in the River Niger.
The boat, which eye witness say was overloaded with about 300 passengers had people from other states on board and was travelling from Egboti in Niger State en route Kpada in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State when it ran into a stationery object, forcing it to topple. Most of those aboard the boat died, while many are still missing as at press time.
The party goers were said to be travelling without protective gears based on poor regulation of those operating ferries in the Kwara axis.
Meanwhile, the governor of Kwara State, Mr. AbdulRaman AbdulRasaq has commiserated with those who have lost their lives in the incident.
“The Governor is sad to receive reports of the boat accident involving several people, particularly residents of Ebu, Dzakan, Kpada, Kuchalu, and Sampi — all in Patigi,” according to a government statement signed by Rafiu Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to the state government.
“The Governor sends his heartfelt condolences to the people of these communities and those from other states. He prays to Almighty Allah to repose the souls of the victims.
“The Governor, meanwhile, continues to monitor the rescue efforts already mounted since Monday night in search of possible survivors.
He commends the alertness of the Etsu Patigi His Royal Highness Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bologi II and other local government authorities for the efforts to save as many people as possible who may have survived the mishap.
