Kwara Governor Pledges N100m Support for Over 200 Lives Lost in Kwara Boat Mishap Victims

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

The Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has pledged N100 million in financial support to families affected by the recent boat tragedy in Gbajigbo village, Kaiama Local Government Area.

OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News gathered in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, that the Governor made the announcement during a visit to the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Omar Mu’azu (Kiyaru IV), where he expressed his condolences and discussed ways to prevent similar occurrences.

During the visit, the Governor emphasized the importance of stricter safety measures for water travel as the accident claimed over 200 lives, leaving the community in deep mourning. 

He noted that wearing life jackets and adhering to safety protocols would now be mandatory for passengers, with violators facing penalties. 

AbdulRazaq also called on the National Inland Waterways Authority to enforce these regulations to prevent further loss of lives.

However, Emir of Kaiama commended the Governor for his prompt response and support. 

He acknowledged the accident as an act of God but stressed the need for greater public awareness about water safety. 

The monarch urged residents to avoid overloading boats, especially at night, and expressed appreciation for the Government’s ongoing support, including efforts to improve local education and infrastructure.

OTN News recalls that the tragic incident occurred on October 2, when residents traveling from Gbajigbo to celebrate Maulud Nabiyy in Niger State encountered difficulties near the Mundi River. 

The four-hour journey ended in disaster as the boat capsized, leading to the death of more than 200 passengers. This accident follows another deadly boat mishap in the State, which claimed over 100 lives in June 2023 in Patigi Local Government Area.

Community leaders revealed that river travel remains the only viable option for residents due to the lack of access roads connecting them with neighboring communities. 

Additionally, local leader, Ismail Ibrahim, lamented the frequent occurrence of boat accidents in the area and appealed to both the State and Federal Governments for better infrastructure and safer travel options, including ferries or road construction.

A high-powered Government delegation led by the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, visited the affected community on behalf of the Governor. 

The Emir of Kaiama however, expressed gratitude for the Government’s swift action and compassion during the crisis. 

He prayed for the souls of the departed and commended the Governor’s proactive leadership, calling on the people to find solace in God’s will while working together to prevent future tragedies.