Kogi State’s Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has visited the site where an estimated 200 victims perished in Thursday’s tragic boat accident on the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger.
Ododo extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.
No fewer than 200 traders and artisans were feared dead in the boat accident that occurred in Kogi State.
Some bodies were said to have been recovered, while search and rescue operations continue to locate the remaining passengers.
The mishap involved traders traveling from Kogi State to the Katcha weekly market in Niger State.
According to a statement issued by Hon. Ismaila Isah, the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Media, Ododo described the accident as a “heartbreaking and unfortunate tragedy.”
He visited the accident site to offer solidarity and support to the grieving families and those affected.
Many of the victims were women, petty traders, and artisans.
Ododo emphasized the urgency of addressing safety concerns on the waterways connecting Kogi and Niger States, marred by recurring accidents.
He urged authorities to intensify efforts to implement safety regulations and minimize risks associated with water transportation in the region.
Expressing commitment to those affected, Governor Ododo pledged government support for injured victims as they recover.
“This tragedy underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures and infrastructural attention on our waterways,” he remarked.
Head of Media Department of National Inland Waterways, Suleman Makama, confirmed the incident on Friday.
According to eyewitnesses, the boat, which belonged to one Musa Dangana, was carrying over 200 passengers, including market women and farm labourers, en route to the Katcha weekly market in Niger State.
