Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has expressed grief over a boat accident in Yauri Local Government Area that claimed the lives of 14 persons, most of them women, shortly after attending a wedding celebration.
The governor, popularly known as Kauran Gwandu, extended condolences to the bereaved families, the Yauri Emirate and residents of the affected communities, describing the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy that has plunged the state into mourning.
The accident reportedly occurred at Gumbi village in Yauri LGA when a boat conveying wedding guests back from Gwarzo village in Ngaski Local Government Area capsized during the return journey.
Idris, who was represented at the funeral prayers by the Chairman of Yauri Local Government, Abubakar Shu’aibu, urged families of the victims to remain strong and accept the incident as an act of God.
He appealed to the mourners to take solace in their faith, noting that every occurrence happens according to divine will and urging the community to remain united during the difficult period.
Providing details of the incident, Shu’aibu disclosed that the victims were part of a large group that had accompanied a bride to her matrimonial home before the overloaded boat overturned mid river.
According to him, more than 100 passengers were on board at the time of the accident, while 14 people, including 13 women and a child, lost their lives in the mishap.
He added that the deceased had since been buried in line with Islamic rites, with prayers offered for the repose of their souls and for strength for the grieving families and the entire Yauri Emirate.
The tragic incident has again drawn attention to recurring boat accidents in riverine communities across Kebbi State, where waterways remain a primary means of transportation for social and commercial activities.
The state government reaffirmed its sympathy with the affected communities and assured residents of continued support as they mourn the victims.