Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago expresses sadness over the boat mishap that occurred on river Niger upstream Jebba dam, at Gbajibo Community of Mokwa Local Government area, which claimed lives of many people including women and children.
The Governor, in a condolence message by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, describes the incident as unfortunate and disheartening.
He says the recurring cases of boat mishaps in the State over the past few years is worrisome, pointing out that government would redouble efforts to ensure strict compliance to safety measures, to tame the ugly trend.
The Governor, who sympathises with the leadership and people of Mokwa local government area over the incident, also commiserates with the family of the victims.
He prays that Allah will repose the souls of the departed, comfort the bereaved and grant quick recovery to those injured.
It was reported that a boat conveying about 300 people, mostly women and children, was sailing from Mundi Community for Maulud celebration, capsized on river Niger upstream Jebba dam, at Gbajibo Community, Mokwa Local Government area.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) in collaboration with relevant MDAs, Local divers and volunteers among others are carrying out search and rescue operations.
About 150 people have been rescued alive so far, while 16 corpses have been recovered.
