At least 27 people have reportedly died in a devastating boat accident in Kwara State, marking yet another tragic incident in the region’s recurring water transport mishaps.
According to Vanguard, the victims were said to be returning from a market in Niger State when the overloaded boat capsized late at night.
The accident, which happened three days ago, occurred amid stormy weather conditions, according to survivors and local eyewitnesses.
A survivor, who spoke under anonymity, revealed that the wooden boat—meant to carry no more than 100 passengers—is frequently loaded with up to 300 people during market days, both in the dry and rainy seasons.
“The boat was too full, as always. We’ve been warning the operators. Then the wind came, and it looked like rain was coming too. Before we knew it, we were in the water,” he said.
This latest tragedy comes just months after over 100 people lost their lives in a similar incident in the Gbajibo community within Kaiama Local Government Area.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Kaiama LGA, Abdullah Danladi, who led a delegation to console the bereaved families, expressed deep sorrow and frustration over the recurring disasters.
“This is becoming an unacceptable annual occurrence,” Danladi stated. “We will no longer tolerate this negligence. A committee will be set up immediately to ensure strict adherence to life jacket usage and to enforce a ban on night travel by boat.”
Also speaking, the Emir of Kaiama, His Royal Highness Muazu Umar, emphasized the need for community sensitization on water travel safety.
“We must prioritize the safety of our people. I will personally see to it that awareness campaigns are intensified across our riverine communities,” the traditional ruler said.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to recover more bodies and ensure survivors receive appropriate care. Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on both the state and federal governments to take more decisive steps to improve inland water transport safety in Nigeria.
