Dear reader, kindly be calm. But you may not when we tell you that this boat has been at this jetty since 1983
BY Monsuroh Abdulsemiu
Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, governor of Kwara state, has donated N100 million to support victims of the recent boat mishap in Kaiama LGA.
The boat, carrying over 200 passengers, capsized on October 3 in the Gwajibo Mudi community.
So far, 90 bodies have been recovered, while 31 people were rescued from the accident.
Abdulrazaq announced the financial aid during a visit to Omar Mu’azu, the Emir of Kaiama, on Thursday.
He expressed his condolences to the emir and the people of Kaiama, while emphasising the need for stricter safety measures in water transport.
The governor also relayed President Bola Tinubu’s condolences to the emir and the affected community.
He said bad weather delayed the president’s delegation from visiting the community.
“We have come to once again offer our condolences following this tragic incident. May God grant mercy to those who lost their lives in the mishap,” he said.
“The government is providing N100 million to support the affected families.
“While we are deeply saddened, we must ensure that no one boards or alights from boats in Kwara without wearing a life jacket.
“Those who fail to comply will face penalties. We also urge the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to enforce life jacket use for all passengers.”
The emir expressed gratitude for the governor’s visit and for sending a delegation led by Yakubu Danladi, speaker of the state house of assembly, earlier.
He said the tragedy was “God’s will”, while stressing the importance of observing safety protocols.
He thanked the governor for the donation and for his continued support, including his efforts to recruit teachers from local communities.
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