Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu has expressed sorrow over the deaths of at least 26 traders in a boat accident on the River Niger in Kogi State.
The accident occurred Tuesday as passengers travelled from Ibaji Local Government Area to Ilushi Market in Edo State.
Kogi’s Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, described the accident as “tragic and unfortunate,” confirming the rising death toll.
In a statement Wednesday, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga quoted Tinubu as calling the incident “shocking and painful,” noting that the victims were “pursuing legitimate livelihoods.”
The President praised first responders and directed emergency agencies to intensify rescue and support efforts. He also urged boat operators to prioritise safety. “Operators must put safety above financial gain,” the statement read.
Water transport mishaps are common in riverine Nigeria due to overcrowding, poor safety practices, and lack of regulation.
Communities along the Niger are in mourning as rescue operations continue.
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