From Yakubu Mustapha Minna
National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), Managing Director Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa has expressed shock over the unfortunate boat mishap in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
This is contained in a statement issued by the commission’s Head, Press and Public Affairs, Nura Tanko Wakili in Minna, saying that the local authorities also confirmed the rescue of many passengers, recovery of 5 dead bodies while 12 persons are still missing.
The statement said the boat mishap occurred at Tungan Leda in Shagunu District of the council, adding that Local authorities stated that the boat was conveying over Eighty passengers with a lot of goods from Duga Mashaya in Niger State to a neighboring Market in Wara, Kebbi State.
According to him, preliminary reports attributed the accident to overloading of the already won-out boat which have undergone many repairs.
It was gathered that the operator was warned not expose the perilous boat to excessive load but the warning fall on the deaf ears.
Sadiq Yelwa however expressed concern that boat operators kept exposing innocent lives to danger despite efforts by relevant authorities to put a stop to the menace.
He reassured that the Commission will continue to engage other sister agencies in ensuring compliance with safety measures on inland water transportation.
The Managing Director expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the repose of their souls, while he sympathized with other injured victims and wish them fast recovery.
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