Atiku Mourns 200 Victims Of Niger Boat Mishap

Nigeria’s former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, has described the death of 200 passengers during a boat capsize in Niger state as tragic.

Naija News reports that according to Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the boat which was sailing from Kogi State to Katcha Market in Niger capsized along the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger.

Atiku called for an Inland Waterways Gaurd to provide support in states where waterways are important to trade.

The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) decried the increasing cases of boat mishaps leading to the loss of lives of Nigerians and required government action.

In his condolence message on Friday, Atiku prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls.

He said, “I am devastated by news of yet another boat mishap in Niger State, which reportedly happened in the early hours of today.

“These tragic incidents are becoming one too many. This particular incident involving no fewer than 200 passengers being thrown into the water highlights the urgent need for the setting up of an Inland Waterways Guard to provide support in Niger State and other places where the waterways are important trade routes.

“I regret to share my condolences with the Niger State government on this tragic incident only two months after the last one. I also sympathize with the bereaved families and pray that the souls of the departed find gentle repose.”