From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja and Layi Olanrewaju, Ilorin
President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the boat mishap, which occurred in Kwara State and claimed many lives.
In a statement issued by Director of Information, State House, Abiodun Oladunjoye, the boat accident according to reports, led to the death of over 100 wedding guests at Egbu village in Patigi Local Government Area of the state.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of the tragic boat accident which claimed the lives of our people in Kwara State. That the victims were guests at a wedding ceremony made the unfortunate accident more painful.
“My heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the families and friends of victims of the tragic mishap. I also sympathise with the government and people of Kwara State over the accident. May all loved ones find comfort,” the president prayed.
While urging the Kwara State government and relevant Federal Government agencies to look into the circumstances surrounding the boat accident, President Tinubu promised that his administration would look into the challenges of inland water transportation in the country, to ensure the matter of safety and operational standards are strictly adhered to.
“The Kwara State government and relevant federal agencies should work together to unravel the immediate and remote causes of this unfortunate accident.
“Immediate relief and necessary assistance should also be provided to the survivors and families of victims,” the president said.
Meanwhile, the Kwara State Police Command has released details of the mishap, putting the casualty figure at 106.
The command’s spokesman, Okasanmi Ajayi, yesterday, said: “Information was received by the Divisional Police Officer of Patigi Divisional Headquarters that a boat accident occurred around the River Niger axis.
“On receiving the information, Commissioner of Police, Kwara State, Paul Odama, immediately dispatched a team of policemen to join others, as well as locals to locate the exact spot the boat accident happened and to join in rescue efforts.
“On leaving the shore, one part of the boat by the engine side collapsed, causing water to penetrate the boat. This ultimately led to the boat capsizing. All efforts to draw the attention of the villagers hosting the wedding ceremony for assistance by the people in the boat proved abortive, leading to the death of about 106 people.”
He mentioned those among the casualties to include people from Ebu village, with 61 casualties; Dzakan Village with 38; Kpada village, four; and three other casualties from Kogi State, totalling 106. He stated further that about 144 people were rescued.
Share in the grief of the families of the dead victims, the commissioner of police, prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed. He further directed that the policemen on the rescue operation should continue in the effort, while providing security for the rescued victims of the accident until they are fully recovered from the shock and trauma of the accident and handed over to their families.