By Saidu Idris
365Daily – The Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, has warned boat operators in the state to desist from overloading to reduce incidences of mishaps leading to loss of lives.
The Governor made the statement in reaction to a Tuesday evening Bagwai boat mishap that led to the death of 20 persons.
He added in a press statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Abba Anwar, on Wednesday, December 1, 2021, in Kano, that the latest incident was shocking.
Ganduje stated: “Bagwai boat mishap, which so far caused the death of 20 people, as rescue operation still on, is a state tragedy.
“We learned that the boat started from Hayin Badau to Bagwai on their way to attend Maulud celebration.
“The boat was ferrying about 50 people with some loads, it capsized because of overloading. Most of the passengers were Islamiyyah students.
“I urge boats operators to always take the issue of overloading very seriously. They should know that they can still get profit without overloading their boats.
“People should know that the lives of their fellow human beings are too important to be risked deliberately.
“Based on information we received this morning, there are 20 deaths. Seven persons have been admitted in hospital and another eight others were found this morning. The rescue operation is still going on.
“We salute the courage and patriot posture of the rescue teams.”