National Telescope national telescope newspaper
The Kogi State Government has confirmed the rescue of 24 people out of approximately 200 passengers aboard the ill-fated boat that capsized on the River Niger on Friday.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kinsley Fanwo, confirmed that the rescued victims are currently receiving medical treatment at nearby healthcare facilities.
Fanwo reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting ongoing rescue efforts, working closely with federal and state disaster management agencies to minimize loss of life.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to provide immediate relief materials to the affected families. The Ministry of Health has also been tasked with ensuring survivors receive the necessary medical attention.
The statement read: “The Kogi State Government is deeply saddened by the tragic boat accident that occurred in Kupa Ebbe Village during the early hours of Thursday, November 28, 2024. While rescue operations are still ongoing, 24 victims have been rescued and are being treated in nearby medical facilities.”
In response to the tragedy, the Kogi State Government has called for stricter safety measures in the state’s marine operations. The government urged water transport operators to avoid night voyages and adhere to safety protocols to prevent future incidents.
“We are committed to implementing legal and administrative frameworks to protect the lives of both operators and passengers in the water transportation sector,” the statement further emphasized.
The government also appealed to the Marine Marshals and other agencies involved in rescue efforts to intensify their work in saving more lives.
The Kogi State Government commended the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), River Marshals, and the authorities of Katcha Local Government Area in Niger State for their tireless efforts in responding to the disaster.
Meanwhile, the state government has extended its condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the tragic incident.
A boat traveling from the Kupa Ebe area in Kogi State to Katcha Market in Niger State capsized near Kpata Danbo, resulting in significant casualties. As of Friday, eight bodies had been recovered from the river.
