TENSION is gradually building up as a boat carrying approximately 200 passengers of mostly women and children capsized late October 1st, 2024, Nigeria’s Independence Anniversary day.
However, unconfirmed sources have put the death toll at 150, while about 150 passengers have been rescued out of about 300 occupants of the ill-fated boat.
The ill-fated boat had departed from Mundi Village, transporting the victims to Gbajibo Village in Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State, following a market day.
The Director of Media and Strategy for the Niger State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Malam Habibu Wushishi, confirmed the incident in a press statement issued on Wednesday in Minna.
He highlighted that a rescue mission is underway, but added that the exact cause of the boat mishap has not been determined.
According to him, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Alhaji Ahmed Baba Suleiman Yumu, and the Permanent Secretary, Mr Mairo Mohammed Mann, have expressed shock upon receiving news of the tragic accident.
He noted that the ministry was working closely with the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.
He said that the ministry has promised to keep all relevant stakeholders informed as more information becomes available.
Wushishi also recalled that this is the second boat mishap in the same village in recent months.
He urged residents of riverine areas to avoid night travel, refrain from overloading boats, ensure the use of safe, well-maintained vessels, and prioritize the use of life jackets to prevent future tragedies.
The Ministry expressed its condolences to the people of Gbajibo Village, the Mokwa Local Government Council, and the Niger State Government over the unfortunate and avoidable accident.
