Omanews
The Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, today paid a condolence visit to the Ejeh of Ibaji and Chairman of Ibaji Area Traditional Council, at his residence in Idah.
Represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, the Governor conveyed the heartfelt condolences of the state government to the people of Ibaji Local Government Area over the tragic boat mishap that claimed several lives.
He assured that the state government would not relent until efforts to rescue the remaining victims are fully exhausted. He further noted that the government deeply shares in the grief and pain of the Ibaji people at this difficult time.
“We want to assure you that Ibaji is not alone; the government stands firmly with you in this trying period,” he said.
The Deputy Governor added that the Governor had already dispatched a delegation to the scene of the incident to ascertain the level of casualties and provide immediate intervention.
In his response, His Royal Highness, Chief Egwemi, noted that accidents often occur without warning and leave behind devastating consequences. He expressed appreciation to the Deputy Governor for the visit, assuring that the traditional council would continue to brief the state government on developments. He confirmed that while many lives were lost, some victims had been rescued, and efforts were ongoing to recover those still missing.
It is worthy of note that a boat carrying many passengers of Ibaji origin, on Teusday capsized on the River Niger, claiming over 20 lives, while others remain submerged. The state Emergency Management Agency and other critical stakeholders of the government had been mobilized to the scene for fact finding and to give intervention.
Unubi Emmanuel
Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor,
Kogi State
October 1, 2025
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