More than 160 people have been feared killed in a boat mishap involving at least 200 people from the Gwajibo Mudi community in the Kaiama local government area of Kwara state.
The Nigerian Tribune gathered that the incident occurred in Gwajibo village in Niger State, a neighbouring community where the boat was headed for a Maulid nabbiy celebration.
Local authorities say only 31 people have been rescued alive as of Wednesday evening.
The Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Kwara state governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, who confirmed the development, said that the rescue effort was still ongoing.
The statement also said that Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State has directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to support survivors and families of the victims of the boat mishap.
“Governor Abdulrazaq is shocked and saddened over the tragic boat mishap involving at least 200 people from the Gwajibo Mudi community in the Kaiama local government area.
“The incident occurred in Gwajibo village in Niger State, a neighbouring community where the boat was headed for a Maulid nabbiy celebration.
“Local authorities say only 31 people have been rescued alive as of this time.
“The governor expresses deep concern at this devastating incident and sends his heartfelt commiserations to the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Mohammed Mu’azu Shehu, and the people of Gwajibo on the development.
“The governor has directed the state emergency management agency to join the humanitarian efforts for the victims, the survivors, and their families.
“A high-powered delegation of the state government led by Speaker of the House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi Salihu is also visiting Gwajibo today to commiserate with the families of the victims.”
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