Sokoto Boat Disaster: LP Aspirant Ezeagu Demands Enhanced Water Safety

Ifeanyi Ezeagu, a governorship hopeful under the Labour Party banner in Imo State, has expressed profound sorrow following a devastating boat mishap in Sokoto State. The incident, which occurred in Gorau community within the Goronyo Local Government Area, has tragically claimed the lives of at least 46 individuals. Ezeagu, a prominent businessman based in Sokoto, extended his sympathies to the Gorau community, the Goronyo Local Government Council, and the Sokoto State Government regarding the unfortunate event.

In a statement released to news correspondents on Friday morning, the aspirant characterized the accident as both tragic and deeply painful. He highlighted that search operations were still underway for 16 other passengers who were on board the ill-fated vessel. Reports indicate that the boat was carrying 77 people when it capsized, with only 15 individuals successfully rescued alive as the search for the remaining missing persons continues.

Ezeagu emphasized that the sheer magnitude of the disaster necessitates urgent action from all tiers of government to elevate safety protocols on Nigeria's internal waterways. He stated, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic boat mishap in Gorau, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, which has resulted in the loss of many precious lives.”

He further conveyed his condolences, saying, “My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the victims, the people of Gorau and the entire Sokoto State Government at this very difficult moment.” Ezeagu added that “The loss of 46 lives, with the search still ongoing for another 16 persons, is a painful reminder of the dangers faced by communities that depend on water transportation.”

The Labour Party aspirant urged both the Federal and state governments across the nation to dedicate more attention to communities situated along rivers and to reinforce safety measures governing water transportation. He stressed the imperative for authorities to formulate and implement policies designed to mitigate the risks inherent in inland waterway travel.

Ezeagu articulated, “Both the Federal and state governments must pay greater attention to riverine areas, particularly water transportation. There is an urgent need for adequate policies, safety regulations, regular inspection of boats, provision of life jackets and effective emergency response mechanisms to prevent a recurrence of this kind of tragedy. Government must ensure that the safety of citizens who depend on waterways for their daily activities is treated as a priority.”

Concluding his statement, Ezeagu offered prayers for the souls of those who perished and appealed to rescue organizations, local divers, and other relevant parties to persist in their efforts to locate the missing. He also encouraged the affected families to remain resilient, underscoring that the tragedy demands a unified approach to prevent similar occurrences in the future.