Boat Mishap: Sen. Karimi Condoles Victims’ Families, Government, People of Kogi State.
The Senator Representing Kogi West Senatorial District and Member, Senate Committee on National Inland Waterways Authority, Sen. Sunday Karimi has expressed sadness over the boat mishap that occurred recently, sent his heartfelt condolences to the Kogi State government and the families affected by the tragic boat mishap on the River Niger.
He described the unfortunate incident, involving a boat approximately carrying 200 market women as unfortunate, pointing out that it is one accident too many.
The accident which occurred while they were traveling from Kogi State to Niger State he said has left a sore taste for the water transportation system, pointing out that it has called for a need to return to the drawing board to put in place necessary safety measures to forestall future occurrence.
In a statement signed by the Sen. Karimi, he expressed his deepest sympathy to the victims’ families of the sad incident, urged that they find strength in the face of the devastating loss.
While he prayed for the repose of the departed souls for those who lost their lives in the accidents, he promised that the accident calls for the need to forestall future occurrence on the Waterways.
He pointed out that the National Inland Waterways Authority confirmed the capsize to have taken place along the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger, a popular route for commercial transportation between Kogi and Niger states lamented the loss of lives of people who are legitimately involved in seeking means of livelihood.
He assured that investigation are ongoing to determine the immediate and remote causes of the accident, said the tragedy calls for concern about safety of waterway transportation in the region, stressed the urgent need for preventive measures in the future.
Sen. Karimi assured of immediate action by the relevant authorities towards enhancing safety protocols on the nations Waterways going forward.
He assured that government will prioritize the safety of individuals who rely on water transport as a primary means of travel and other commercial activities, said it is unfortunate that the safest means of transportation system has been left unchecked, leading to severe casualties.
He assured of improved infrastructure, better regulation and strict enforcement of safety measures that would avert further losses of lives on the Waterways.
Karimi commiserated with the victims’ families, the state government assured of support to the injured and others affected by the disaster.
Sen. Karimi commended the Kogi State government for it pledge to assist the victims’ families and to collaborate with federal agencies to ensure adequate support for the injured and others impacted by the tragedy.