An Imo State governorship aspirant of the Labour Party, Ifeanyi Ezeagu, has expressed grief over the boat accident in Gorau community, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, which has claimed at least 46 lives.
Ezeagu, a Sokoto-based businessman, also commiserated with the families of the victims, the people of Gorau, the Goronyo Local Government Council and the Sokoto State Government over the tragedy.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Labour Party aspirant described the incident as painful and devastating, noting that rescue teams were still searching for passengers who remained missing.
Reports indicated that 77 people were aboard the boat when it capsized. While 15 passengers were rescued alive, the search continued for those still unaccounted for.
Ezeagu said the scale of the tragedy highlighted the urgent need for stronger safety measures on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic boat mishap in Gorau, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, which has resulted in the loss of many precious lives,” he said.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the victims, the people of Gorau and the entire Sokoto State Government at this very difficult moment.
“The loss of 46 lives, with the search still ongoing for another 16 persons, is a painful reminder of the dangers faced by communities that depend on water transportation.”
He urged the Federal Government and state governments to pay greater attention to riverine communities and improve safety standards for inland water transportation.
According to him, authorities should develop and enforce stronger regulations to minimise the risks faced by residents who rely on waterways for transportation and other daily activities.
“Both the Federal and state governments must pay greater attention to riverine areas, particularly water transportation,” Ezeagu said.
“There is an urgent need for adequate policies, safety regulations, regular inspection of boats, provision of life jackets and effective emergency response mechanisms to prevent a recurrence of this kind of tragedy.
“Government must ensure that the safety of citizens who depend on waterways for their daily activities is treated as a priority.”
Ezeagu also called on rescue agencies, local divers and other stakeholders to sustain efforts to locate the missing passengers.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of those who died and urged the bereaved families to remain strong as they cope with the loss.
The Labour Party aspirant stressed that the tragedy should prompt collective action by governments and relevant agencies to strengthen waterway safety and prevent similar accidents in the future.
