The Kogi State Government says it is deeply shocked by the death of over 26 traders who died in a boat accident. The victims were from Ibaji Local Government Area and were on their way to Ilushi Market in Edo State.
The Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, announced this in Lokoja on Wednesday. He said the tragedy is a huge loss, and the government sympathizes with the families of the victims and the people of Ibaji.
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Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo also expressed his condolences and said the state government stands with the community during this painful time. He has ordered the State Emergency Management Agency and other authorities to give immediate help and relief to those affected.
The governor added that the government will work with federal agencies to improve water transport safety and prevent similar accidents. He also advised riverine communities to avoid overloading boats and to always use life jackets when traveling.
The Chairman of Ibaji Local Government, Hon. Ugeh Emmanuel, described the tragedy as the worst ever in the area. He said the exact number of victims is still not clear because no one can confirm how many passengers were on board when the accident happened.
According to him, the victims were heading to Ilushi for the October 1st celebration, which is a yearly tradition in the community, before they met their untimely death.
It can be recalled that on November 29, 2024, another deadly boat accident claimed 19 lives when a wooden boat carrying 60 passengers from Kupa community in Lokoja to Kacha Market in Niger State capsized.