Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has conveyed deep sorrow following a devastating boat accident in the Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, which claimed the lives of approximately 60 individuals.
This sentiment was outlined in a statement released by AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Forum’s Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, on Saturday from Ilorin.
In the statement, the NGF extended its heartfelt condolences to the residents and authorities of Niger State, while also praising the swift response of the rescue teams involved.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who lost relatives to the tragedy,” the Forum noted. It further added, “We wish those who survived but are in critical conditions safe recovery.”
As the nation once again grieves this loss, the NGF reiterated its alarm over the increasing frequency of such maritime incidents, often triggered by factors like excessive passenger loads, dilapidated vessels, or journeys undertaken in the dark.
“These incidents are avoidable if everyone plays by the rules, and respects the sanctity of the human life,” the statement emphasized.
To prevent future calamities, the Forum urged all water travelers to strictly follow safety protocols, particularly by mandating the use of life jackets—a measure it highlighted as crucial, given the ongoing donations of these essential items by both federal and state governments to protect lives.
