27 Traders killed in Kwara boat mishap

There was confusion, agony and pains in kwara as not less than 27 traders have died after a boat capsized in a river at Gbajibo community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.

It was gathered that the victims were returning from a market in neighboring Niger State on Saturday night when their boat capsized.

Although, the actual number of passengers on board before the accident occurred could not be ascertained, sources said that the boat was overloaded with over 100 passengers

It was gathered that an unspecified number of passengers survived the boat mishap.

It was further learnt that the incident happened as a result of overloading coupled with strong winds from an approaching storm.

The Chairman of Kaiama LGA, Abdullah Danladi, who confirmed the incident on Sunday, said he in company of other government officials had ready visited the bereaved families.

Danladi condemned the recurring nature of such incidents and announced plans to form a committee tasked with enforcing safety regulations, including mandatory life jackets and a ban on night travel.

The Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Umar, called for consistent awareness campaigns to ensure compliance with safety standards among boat passengers and operators.