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From Muhammad Gazali Garba, Sokoto
Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has warned boat operators in Goronyo Local Government Area against overloading and directed relevant authorities to enforce safety measures to prevent further loss of lives on the state’s waterways.
He gave the directive during a condolence visit to Gorau town in Goronyo LGA following a recent boat mishap that claimed several lives.
Represented by the APC leader in the state, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, Governor Aliyu said the safety of lives and property remained a top priority of his administration.
He said the government would not fold its arms and allow innocent lives to be lost through negligence, directing relevant agencies to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of passengers using waterways across the state.
Wamakko, who conveyed the governor’s message, expressed deep sorrow over the mishap and urged the bereaved families to take solace in the will of Allah.
He prayed for the forgiveness of the deceased, asking Allah to grant them Aljannatul Firdaus and give their families the fortitude to bear the loss.
Receiving the delegation on behalf of the people, the Minister of State for Works, Muhammad Bello Goronyo, thanked the APC leader and the state government for the condolence visit and expression of concern.
He also commended the government for its continued efforts to address security challenges in the area, particularly bandit attacks.
The delegation had earlier visited Dinawa village to sympathise with residents following a bandit attack that claimed seven lives and left several others injured.
Other communities visited included Birjingo in Goronyo LGA and Tsamaye in Sabon Birni LGA, where the delegation condoled with residents over bandit attacks and the death of the APC Chairman in the area, Abdullahi Yarima.
Speaking during the visits, Deputy Governor, Idris Muhammad Gobir, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving safety on the waterways and tackling persistent security challenges in affected communities.
Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa, announced the donation of food items and N1 million to each of the families of the 65 victims of the boat mishap and bandit attacks.
He said the gesture was intended to provide immediate relief and demonstrate the government’s solidarity with the affected families in their moment of grief.
The condolence visits ended with special prayers for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for Allah’s protection, guidance and continued support for the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu and APC leader, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko.
