Kebbi State Government Mourns After Deadly Boat Accident Kills 14 Wedding Guests
A devastating boat accident in Kebbi State has plunged the region into mourning, with 14 people, predominantly women, losing their lives following a wedding ceremony in Yauri Local Government Area. The incident occurred when an overloaded boat capsized, highlighting persistent safety concerns in the state's riverine communities.
Governor Idris Expresses Condolences and Calls for Faith
Governor Nasir Idris, widely known as Kauran Gwandu, has described the tragedy as profoundly painful, extending his sympathies to the bereaved families, the Yauri Emirate, and local residents. Represented by Yauri Local Government Chairman Abubakar Shu'aibu at funeral prayers, the governor urged affected individuals to remain steadfast, emphasizing acceptance of the event as divine will.
"I appeal to you to accept this incident in good faith, bearing in mind that nothing happens without the knowledge of our Creator," Idris stated. He added, "God does what He wants at the time He wants, and nobody has the right to question Him."
Details of the Fatal Mishap in Gumbi Village
The accident took place in Gumbi village, Yauri LGA, as victims were returning from accompanying a bride to her husband's home in Gwarzo village, Ngaski Local Government Area. According to Shu'aibu, the boat was carrying over 100 passengers when it overturned mid-journey, resulting in the deaths of 13 women and one child.
Shu'aibu confirmed that the deceased have been buried in accordance with Islamic rites, with prayers offered for their souls. "We pray Allah (SWT) to forgive their shortcomings and grant them Jannatul Firdaus. May He also grant the families and the entire Yauri Emirate the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss," he expressed.
Recurring Boat Accidents Highlight Water Transport Risks
This tragedy underscores a recurring issue in Kebbi State, where water transportation remains a vital means of travel for social and economic activities in riverine areas. The state government has reiterated its sympathy and assured ongoing support to the Yauri community as they cope with one of the deadliest boat mishaps in recent memory.
The incident draws attention to broader safety challenges, reminiscent of a similar canoe accident in Yobe State earlier reported by Legit.ng, which claimed 25 lives and left 14 missing. That event involved a canoe carrying 52 passengers from Adiyani town in Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru LGA, capsizing during a journey related to fishing and farming activities.
As Kebbi State mourns, calls for enhanced water safety measures and infrastructure improvements are likely to intensify, aiming to prevent such heartbreaking losses in the future.
