Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has pledged ₦100 million in support for the victims of the recent boat mishap in Kaiama Local Government Area, which involved approximately 200 people. The Governor made the announcement on Thursday during a visit to the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Omar Mu’azu (Kiyaru IV), where he expressed deep condolences to the Emir and the entire Kaiama community.
According to a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, Governor AbdulRazaq reaffirmed the importance of implementing stricter safety measures for water travel. He conveyed the condolences of President Bola Tinubu, who had intended to send a delegation but was prevented from doing so due to unfavourable weather conditions.
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“We have come to again register our condolences over the sad incident. May Allaah forgive our compatriots who died in the mishap,” the Governor said.
AbdulRazaq announced that the government would provide ₦100 million to assist the victims and their families, emphasising the need for compulsory life jacket use for anyone embarking on water travel in the state.
“No one who is embarking or disembarking from a boat in Kwara is allowed to do so without a life jacket. Anyone who does so will have to face penalties. We also call on the National Inland Waterways Authority to, as a matter of oversight, ensure that people who board boats must use life jackets,” he added.
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The Emir of Kaiama commended the Governor for his swift response and the earlier visit from a delegation led by Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi Salihu, the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly. While acknowledging the incident as an act of God, the Emir stressed the importance of following safety regulations, including wearing life jackets, avoiding overloading, and refraining from night travel.
The Emir thanked Governor AbdulRazaq for the ₦100 million donation and his continuous support for the people of Kaiama, particularly in areas like education and the hiring of local teachers.
