Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has condoled with the victims of the Gummi boat mishap, which claimed the lives of 13 people last Sunday at Uban Dawaki Community in Gummi Local Government Area.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Malam Mani Mummini, visited the Emir of Gummi, HRH Justice Lawal Hassan, and announced a donation of N20 million to the affected families.
Describing the incident as “tragic and monumental,” the deputy governor said the government was shocked by the news.
According to him, Governor Lawal directed the donation to support and alleviate the hardship faced by the victims’ families.
He disclosed further that the state government, as an effort to prevent similar incidents, will collaborate with experts to sensitize boat operators and users on safety measures.
- Marwa appoints former spokesperson to head NDLEA Port Command
- Illegality of EFCC: All eyes on the Supreme Court, by Ibrahim Gusau
- Zenith Bank Basketball Final 8: Air Warriors pull out
- Bouncer allegedly stabs man to death in Lagos club
- NLC lists downsides of hike in petrol price
He added the government will work with the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to provide life jackets at all water transport stations in the state, making their use compulsory for passengers and operators.
In his remarks, the Emir of Gummi appreciated the state government’s gesture and concern, welcoming the introduction of life jackets.
He however corrected the reported number of deaths, stating that 13 people died, not 40 or 50, and that there were 20 passengers on the boat, not 40.
