Biodun Esan, Ilorin
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has expressed its deepest condolences to the people and government of Niger State over a boat mishap in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State that claimed the lives of 60 persons.
The Forum, in a statement on Friday night and signed by its Chairman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, commended the rescue operations immediately mounted by the administration of Governor Umar Bago.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who lost relatives to the tragedy. We wish those who survived but are in critical condition a safe recovery.
“As we again mourn the victims of this accident, we restate our concern at the rising incidents of boat mishaps whose causes include overcrowding, old boats, or night travel.
“These incidents are avoidable if everyone plays by the rules and respects the sanctity of human life,” the Chairman said.
The Forum similarly called for strict adherence to the use of life jackets during water travel, especially since the Federal and State Governments have repeatedly donated life jackets to save lives.
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