The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, has expressed sadness by the recent boat accidents across the country, killing tens of people.
Reacting specifically to the incidents in Adamawa and Niger States, Speaker Abbas called for collective efforts by both the government and the boat operators towards safeguarding the lives and properties on Nigerian waterways.
On Friday night, several people reportedly died after a boat capsized at Njuwa Lake, Rugange Village in Yola South Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
Later on Sunday, a boat boarded by over 100 passengers in Mokwa LGA of Niger State reportedly capsized, killing 30 of the passengers.
Again on Monday, a boat accident reportedly occurred in Kwatan Mallam Adamu, Gurin Village, in Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State, killing over 10 persons.
In a statement signed by Signed: Musa Abdullahi Krishi, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, the Speaker condemned a situation where water transportation, which serves as an alternative to road and rail for the movement of people and goods, was now recording mishaps.
Speaker Abbas, therefore, urged the relevant authorities to consider a review of the operational standards, while seeking strict adherence to all safety measures by both the boat operators and the passengers.
The Speaker, while praying for the repose of the lost souls, commiserated with the families of the victims, the people, and the government of Niger and Adamawa States over the unfortunate incidents.