Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – Most of the 108 people who drowned after a boat broke up in north-central Nigeria were women and their children, survivors and local authorities told the Associated Press on Thursday as search efforts continued for dozens still missing in the tragedy.
The boat, which was reportedly carrying more than 200 passengers, capsized on Niger River in the Kwara State on Wednesday night. Reports indicate that the boat was overloaded with passengers and goods, which likely contributed to its sinking.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community as families and loved ones mourn the loss of their mothers, sisters, and children. According to witnesses, the boat capsized shortly after departing from Lafiagi en route to Kebbi, a journey that typically takes up to 16 hours.
As search and rescue teams continue to recover bodies from the river, local authorities have expressed their condolences to the families of the victims. Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, in a statement on Thursday, said that the tragedy underscores the need for stricter regulation of inland waterways transportation.
“The development is devastating and heart-wrenching. It is one tragedy too many, coming as it does on the heels of similar ones in Niger, Benue, and Lagos states,” said AbdulRazaq.
The Nigerian Waterways Authority has also pledged to investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible for the boat’s overloading are held accountable.
Meanwhile, survivors of the tragedy have called on the government to do more to ensure the safety of passengers on inland waterways. In a statement, one survivor noted that many boats on the river are often overcrowded and poorly maintained, putting the lives of passengers at risk.
“We need help from the government. We need more regulations and stricter enforcement to ensure that boats are not overloaded and are maintained properly,” said the survivor.
The tragedy is another wake-up call for the Nigerian government to do more to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens. With boats being a primary mode of transportation for many communities, it is essential that the government takes action to regulate this industry and ensure that passengers are protected.
