By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Ukomu Igala Organisation (UIO) has called on the Federal, State, and Local Governments to urgently enforce safety standards in inland waterways transportation to prevent recurring boat mishaps in Nigeria.
In a statement signed by its National Leader, Major General James Ataguba (rtd), the organisation expressed deep sorrow over the September 30 boat accident in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State, which claimed several lives and destroyed property.“
At UIO, we are devastated by this latest tragic loss of innocent lives and property in Ibaji. The increasing cases of boat accidents in Nigeria’s inland waters are largely due to neglect of safety standards by boat operators and the regulatory authorities,” Ataguba said.
The group lamented what it described as the “age-long neglect” of riverine communities in Nigeria, particularly Ibaji and Igala/Bassa land, noting that residents often resort to unsafe means of transportation while trying to earn a living under harsh socio-economic conditions.
UIO urged relevant regulatory agencies to strengthen enforcement of safety rules on waterways and called on both the Federal and Kogi State Governments to address long-standing infrastructural challenges in Ibaji, especially poor water and road transportation.“
As an oil-producing community from which the nation benefits, Ibaji deserves holistic intervention in road and water transport infrastructure as well as other social amenities,” the statement read.The group also demanded a thorough investigation of the Ibaji boat mishap to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences.UIO extended its condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Ibaji, and the Government of Kogi State, describing the tragedy as a profound loss.
