By Uzair Adam
A devastating boat accident has reportedly claimed the lives of 27 passengers in Kwara State.
The victims were said to be returning from a market trip in neighbouring Niger State when the incident occurred three days ago.
Eyewitnesses and a survivor of the mishap blamed the tragedy on overloading and a sudden heavy storm that struck at night.
The boat, according to sources, was built to carry about 100 people but often ferries up to 300 passengers during both dry and rainy seasons.
This latest mishap comes just seven months after over 100 villagers died in a similar incident in the Gbajibo community, Kaiama Local Government Area.
Chairman of Kaiama LGA, Abdullah Danladi, confirmed the incident and led a government delegation to sympathise with the bereaved families.
He warned that the government would no longer tolerate the recurring loss of lives on local waterways and revealed plans to establish a committee to enforce the use of life jackets and ban nighttime boat operations.
Also responding to the tragedy, the Emir of Kaiama, His Royal Highness Muazu Umar, vowed to step up awareness campaigns aimed at promoting safe practices among boat operators and passengers.