The Kebbi State Government has expressed anguish over the death of 14 persons who drowned in a boat accident in Yauri Local Government Area.
The victims, predominantly women, were said to be travelling back from a wedding ceremony when the boat carrying them overturned.
Governor Nasir Idris, fondly referred to as Kauran Gwandu, extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, the Yauri Emirate and the entire community, describing the incident as heartbreaking and a monumental loss.
The mishap occurred at Gumbi village in Yauri LGA. Sources disclosed that the passengers had earlier escorted a bride to her new home in Gwarzo village, Ngaski Local Government Area, and were on their return journey when tragedy struck.
The governor, who was represented at the funeral rites by the Chairman of Yauri LGA, Abubakar Shu’aibu, urged residents to remain resolute and accept the occurrence as an act of God.
He encouraged the bereaved families to draw strength from their faith, stressing that nothing happens without divine approval.
Shu’aibu, while giving an account of the incident, revealed that the boat was conveying over 100 passengers at the time of the accident and capsized after becoming overloaded, plunging occupants into the river.
He confirmed that 14 people comprising 13 women and a child lost their lives.
According to him, the deceased were buried in accordance with Islamic traditions, with prayers offered for Allah’s mercy and eternal rest for their souls.
The fatal accident has once again underscored the persistent dangers associated with water transportation in riverine communities of Kebbi State, where residents largely depend on boats for movement, particularly during ceremonies and commercial activities.
The state government reiterated its sympathy to the people of Yauri and assured them of solidarity as they cope with the devastating loss.
