Boat mishaps: Speaker Abbas mourns victims, seeks preventive measures

By Christiana Ekpa

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.
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.
Ogalla reiterated this at the opening of the CNS 2023 Retreat with Principal Staff Officers, Flag Officers Commanding and Commanders, on Tuesday in Abuja.
He said that naval personnel and the service were duty bound to reverse the impression in terms of securing the maritime domain and stamping out oil theft in Nigeria.
“I therefore want to make this clear that under my watch there is zero tolerance for oil theft. Any officer or rating or any person who is found to be involved in oil theft will be punished to the full extent of the law.
“We will not fear anyone. I expect you to go back and educate your officers and ratings about the menace of oil theft.
“The government looks up to us to lead the fires and we have no option but to do just that,” he said.
He said that in view of this, the navy must work together with sister services, the armed forces, the police and other military and security agencies to stamp out the measures of all attempts.(NAN)
Governor Alia stated this while swearing-in 17 Commissioners and 23 Special Adviser on Tuesday at the banquet Hall, Government House, Makurdi.
He said the inauguration of the new cabinet marks a milestone in his government’s effort to reposition the State and bring about the needed development.
The Governor told the new appointees that their selection is a call to dedicate themselves to service with trust and loyalty, adding that they have been entrusted with great responsibility and must reassure the Benue people that their trust in them is not misplaced.
“It is imperative to honor this trust. You should bring about positive change and uplift lives of the people you serve. You should listen to their grievances and work tirelessly to meet thier demands.
“A key performance index, KPI will be periodically used to monitor you to determine your ability to serve Benue’ people. My 100 days of which am proud of, so people are looking to your own 100 days in office.”