From Layi Olanrewaju, Ilorin
About 100 persons lost their lives when a boat capsized on the River Niger around Patigi in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday as they were returning to Ebbu, Kpada and other nearby villages after a wedding ceremony in Egboti community in Niger State.
A Resident of Patigi, Malam Isah Gimba, who disclosed this to Daily SUN noted that the bodies of 15 people have so far been recovered out of the over 100 on board.
The Secretary, Patigi Local Government Area, Malam Idris Pata Mohammed said the Council has mobilized people to support the survivors who cut across Zakkan in Kwara and Sanpi village in neighbouring Kogi State.
He, however, advised people residing in riverine areas to desist from night journeys as the River Niger may overflow its banks from time to time due to heavy downpour.
Meanwhile,Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has commiserated with the people of Patigi on the devastating news of a boat mishap in which dozens of people were feared killed and many others still missing.
The boat, which also had people from other states on board, was travelling from Egboti in Niger State en route Kpada in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State.
“The Governor is sad to receive reports of the boat accident involving several people, particularly residents of Ebu, Dzakan, Kpada, Kuchalu, and Sampi — all in Patigi,” according to a government statement on Tuesday.
“The Governor sends his heartfelt condolences to the people of these communities and those from other states. He prays to Almighty Allah to repose the souls of the victims.
“The Governor, meanwhile, continues to monitor the rescue efforts already mounted since Monday night in search of possible survivors. He commends the alertness of the Etsu Patigi His Royal Highness Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bologi II and other local government authorities for the efforts to save as many people as possible who may have survived the mishap.”