By Atoyebi Nike
The Kogi State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the boat accident that claimed at least 26 lives on the River Niger on Tuesday evening. The victims, mostly traders from Ibaji Local Government Area, were travelling to the Illushi Market in Edo State when the mishap occurred.
In a statement, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy. He said Governor Usman Ododo has directed state emergency officials to work with local authorities to provide immediate support for affected families.
Governor Ododo assured that the state will strengthen collaboration with federal agencies to improve waterway safety, stressing the need for riverine communities to avoid overloading boats and to always use life jackets.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and the entire Ibaji community in this moment of grief,” Fanwo said.
