A boat carrying over 100 people that was returning from a wedding ceremony sank in Egbu village, Patigi LGA, Kwara State. According to reports, the boat that capsized early Tuesday morning on the River Niger was overcrowded. The victims, which included women and children, were reportedly on their way back to their base in Patigi from the town of Egboti in Niger State.
Dozens of bodies have been found, but many more are still missing. No survivors from the rescue effort have been recorded as of the time of this publication. The governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has expressed sympathy to the victims’ families. AbdulRazaq stated in a statement released on Tuesday by Rafiu Ajakaiye, the governor’s spokesperson, that the state administration will keep an eye on the rescue mission.
“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,” the statement reads.
“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.”
