President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed grief as several people are feared dead after a boat sank in Mai’aduwa Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Reacting to the incident in a statement issued by his spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, on Friday in Abuja, Buhari said he was extremely pained by capsizing of the boat.
The boat was carrying mostly children returning from Sallah celebrations.
He said: “My thoughts are with the bereaved families.
“Right now, rescue operations by the State Government and National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, are ongoing at the site of the tragedy, hoping to rescue missing passengers.
“NIWA has been directed to provide more life jackets to the communities in the areas. I pray for the repose of the deceased and for the safety of everyone on board.”
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The president warned against use of rickety boats, overloading and none use of life jackets which had been associated with frequent boat mishaps in the country.
Also, the President extended birthday greetings to Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau.
In a congratulatory message issued by his media aide, Malam Garba Shehu, on Friday in Abuja, the president prayed for Lalong’s long and healthy life.
Buhari described Lalong as “a tireless peace worker whose government has shown decisiveness in resolving the many conflicts between the different communities in the state.”
The president wished the governor good health, happiness and fulfillment as he marked his 59th birthday.
