President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the capsizing of a boat in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State, offering his heartfelt condolences to the families of those affected by this tragedy.
The president made his feelings known in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, in Abuja on Wednesday.
While efforts are ongoing to recover more survivors, the president extended his gratitude to all those involved in the rescue efforts.
He also wished those injured from the accident quick recovery.
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No fewer than 100 persons had earlier been declared missing from the boat mishap that occurred near Corner Libata Ingaski, a border town between Kebbi and Niger.
Alhaji Ahmed Inga, Director-General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed in Minna on Wednesday.
The passengers, believed to be mainly women and children, were travelling from Niger to Kebbi on Wednesday morning when the vessel capsized.
He said the agency received report of boat mishap that occurred around 8 a.m, adding that the boat was said to have taken off at Loko Minna in Niger, by 7:30 a.m.
Inag said that the boat was carrying more than 180 passengers and most of the passengers were from Kebbi heading to a market.
He said the cause of the accident was as a result of to over loading and old age of the boat.
The director-general said more than 20 people had been rescued and four bodies recovered.
He said that search and rescue operation was ongoing by the Marine police and other agencies.
