Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has expressed dismay over the news of no fewer than 100 people who are feared dead in a boat accident in Egbu village, in the Patigi Local Government Area of the state.
It was reported that the boat travelling along the Niger River was carrying wedding guests who were returning on Monday morning to Kwara State from a ceremony in nearby Niger State.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye on Tuesday, the governor commiserated with families of the victims and members of the community where the incident occurred.
He expressed deep sadness over the unfortunate incident, which claimed scores of lives.
The statement read: “The Governor is sad to receive reports of the boat accident involving several people, particularly residents of Ebu, Dzakan, Kpada, Kuchalu, and Sampi — all in Patigi.
“The Governor sends his heartfelt condolences to the people of these communities and those from other states. He prays to Almighty Allah to repose the souls of the victims”.
The statement added that the governor will continue to monitor ongoing rescue efforts, hoping that there would be some survivors.
He added: “The Governor, meanwhile, continues to monitor the rescue efforts already mounted since Monday night in search of possible survivors.
Abdulrazaq commended the traditional leader of the community and local authorities for their promptness in launching rescue operations.
“He commends the alertness of the Etsu Patigi, His Royal Highness Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bologi II, and other local government authorities for the efforts to save as many people as possible who may have survived the mishap”, the statement said.
As of the time of this report, the police are yet to confirm how many people have died or how many were on board the boat, which was reportedly overloaded.
