The 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed profound sorrow over the recent boat mishap in Yobe State that claimed 29 lives, with many others still missing.
He described the incident as part of a recurring failure to safeguard lives on Nigeria’s waterways.
In a statement on Tuesday, Obi noted that the Yobe tragedy occurred just days after a similar accident in Lagos State, which resulted in the deaths of six young people.
He warned that such incidents are becoming alarmingly frequent across the country.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic boat mishap in Yobe State that has claimed 29 precious lives, with many still missing, leaving families in grief.
“This comes just a few days after the Lagos boat mishap that claimed six young lives. My heartfelt condolences go to the families of those who lost their loved ones, and I pray that God grants them comfort, strength, and the fortitude to bear this painful loss,” he said.
On the broader issue of waterway safety, Obi stressed that he has repeatedly highlighted the dangers posed by Nigeria’s waterways and called for proactive measures rather than routine expressions of sympathy.
“I have consistently spoken about the safety of our waterways. These painful occurrences happen far too often.
“We must move from condolences to prevention and take this matter very seriously.
“I commend the Government of Yobe for their efforts so far. My prayers are with the people of Yobe State, and I urge all leaders to ensure functional, secure systems that protect Nigerians—on land, in the air, and on our waterways.
“A nation that values its people builds systems that safeguard them,” he concluded.
