Kupa boat mishap: Ododo expresses shock, calls for safer water transportation
IDRIS AHMED, Lokoja
Kogi State Government has expressed sadness and shock over the tragic boat mishaps that occurred in Kupa Ebbe Village on the Niger river during the early hours of Thursday, November 28, 2024.
It was reported that a passenger boat conveying traders from Kupa Ebe to Katcha Market capsized in the Niger river, near Kpata Danbo, resulting in significant casualties.
Though search and rescue operations are still ongoing, it is feared that over 20 person’s have lost their lives, while about 24 victims have been rescued and are currently receiving medical care in nearby health facilities.
In its condolence message through the Commissioner of Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, the State Government extends its heartfelt sympathies to the families who have lost loved ones in this unfortunate incident.
” Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. We remain committed to supporting rescue efforts and are working in close collaboration with State and Federal agencies to minimize the loss of life”.
According to the Commissioner, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, has directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to provide immediate relief materials to affected families, while the Ministry of Health has been instructed to ensure that survivors receive adequate medical attention.
The government therefore commend the swift response and cooperation of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and River Marshals, as well as the authorities of Katcha Local Government Area in Niger State.
The statement acknowledged the tireless efforts of Kogi and Federal officials to address the situation.
In view of the disaster,the Kogi State Government calls for stricter safety measures in marine operations across the State, urging operators in the water transportation sector to avoid night voyages and to adopt safety protocols that can help prevent such incidents in the future.
Hon. Fanwo who expressed Government’s committed to implementing legal and administrative frameworks to safeguard the lives of both operators and passengers using water transportation, equally appealed to the Marine Marshals and all other agencies involved in rescue operations to intensify their efforts to save more lives.
