The Coalition of Shiroro Associations (COSA) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic boat accident that claimed the lives of over 40 people at Kwata River in Zumba, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. The incident occurred on Saturday during market hours, when a canoe carrying around 50 passengers, livestock, and agricultural produce capsized on what was supposed to be a routine journey home.
In a statement signed by COSA’s Publicity Secretary, Abdulrahaman Babafada, the group described the incident as a devastating loss to the community. “This heartbreaking accident has left our people in profound grief, as many of those who perished were simply on their way to or from the market,” the statement read.
COSA noted that while local rescue efforts continue, the toll remains heavy, with almost all the livestock and goods on board swept away by the river’s strong current. The organisation extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and called for both immediate and long-term support.
The coalition appealed to relevant government bodies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Niger State Government, and the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), to urgently provide emergency relief and rehabilitation support to the bereaved.
“The scale of this tragedy demands swift and comprehensive intervention from all levels of government to ensure that no family suffers alone in their grief,” COSA said.
Beyond emergency response, COSA stressed the urgent need for comprehensive legislation and enforcement of water transport safety regulations. It called on the government to mandate the use of life jackets and other safety measures before boarding canoes or any form of water transportation.
“We cannot continue to lose precious lives to preventable accidents. The government must take decisive action to protect those who rely on our rivers for their daily movement and livelihood,” Babafada added.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the safety and wellbeing of Shiroro communities and urged authorities to prevent future tragedies through responsible policy and action.
