Kwara State Assembly Demands Action Following Tragic Incident
In light of the devastating boat capsizing incident that occurred on October 1st in Gwajibo, Kaiama Local Government Area, the Kwara House of Assembly has called for stricter regulations and enforcement of guidelines for water transport operations in the state.
The House members, deeply saddened by the loss of lives, emphasized the need for the Ministry of Works and Transport to collaborate with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to ensure safety standards are adhered to.
Key Resolutions:
- Deployment of NIWA Staff: The Assembly urged NIWA to station its staff at all loading points on Nigerian waterways to regulate operations and enforce safety guidelines.
- Emergency Relief: The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) was directed to work with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief materials to survivors and families of the victims.
- Commendation for Governor: The Speaker commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his prompt response and solidarity with the affected community.
A Call for Prevention:
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures in water transport. The House stressed the need for boat operators to adhere to capacity limits and ensure passengers are properly equipped with life jackets
The Kwara House of Assembly’s actions underscore the commitment to preventing future tragedies and ensuring the safety of citizens traveling on waterways. By implementing stricter regulations and enforcing safety guidelines, the state aims to create a safer environment for water transport in Nigeria.