From Bashir Rabe Mani in Sokoto
The member representing Goronyo and Gada Federal Constituency, Hon. Bashir Gorau, has called on the Federal Government to urgently desilt Goronyo Dam in Sokoto State, to save lives and protect the livelihoods of thousands of people who depend on the dam.
He said that the desilting of the dam would prevent the recurrence of boat mishaps and help to boost irrigation, fishing and dry-season farming the area.
The appeal by the member of the House of Representatives followed the recent boat accident in Gorau village that claimed no fewer than 65 lives and left many others missing.
In a statement on Monday, Rep. Gorau expressed deep sorrow over the incident and commiserated with families of the victims and the people of Goronyo, Gada and Sokoto State at large.
The lawmaker decried the recurrence of boat mishap along the waterway, especially in the peak of the rainy season in August and September.
He said the persistent silting of Goronyo Dam has made the waterways shallow and dangerous, a situation compounded during the rains when water levels rise and currents become stronger.
Gorau noted that desilting the dam would not only make navigation safer for riverine communities but would also boost irrigation, fishing and dry-season farming activities in Goronyo and Gada.
“The Federal Government, through relevant agencies, should as a matter of urgency commence the desilting of Goronyo Dam.
” This will save lives and protect the livelihoods of thousands of people who depend on the dam,” Gorau said.
He further urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Sokoto State Government to provide immediate assistance to victims and survivors of the mishap.
Rep. Gorau also called on boat operators to ensure the use of life jackets and avoid overloading to minimize accidents.
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