Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago has expressed sadness over the boat mishap that occurred on river Niger upstream Jebba dam, in Mokwa Local Government area, describing the incident as unfortunate and disheartening.
The Governor, in a condolence message by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim.
He said that the recurring cases of boat mishaps in the state over the past few years was worrisome, pointing out that government would redouble efforts to ensure strict compliance to safety measures, to tame the ugly trend.
The Governor, who sympathised with the leadership and people of Mokwa local government area over the incident, also commiserated with the family of the victims.
He, however, prayed 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 were carrying out search and rescue operations.
“About 150 people have been rescued alive so far, while 16 corpses have been recovered,” the statement read.
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