Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State has expressed shock over the Tuesday evening Bagwai boat mishap that led to the death of 20 persons.

Fifteen passengers are still missing, according to the Kano government.

Based on the information we received this morning, there are 20 deaths,” Mr Ganduje explained in a statement issued on Wednesday by his chief press secretary, Abba Anwar. “Seven persons have been admitted to the hospital, and another eight others were found this morning. The rescue operation is still going on.”

He added that the Bagwai boat mishap, “which so far caused the death of 20 people, as rescue operation still on, is a state tragedy.” 

According to the statement, the boat took off from Hayin Badau to Bagwai, with the passengers on their way to attend the Maulud celebration. 

“The boat was ferrying about 50 people with some loads. It capsized because of overloading. Most of the passengers were Islamiyyah students,” the statement added.

The governor prayed to God to forgive the deceased and grant quick recovery to the rescued receiving medical attention.

“I urge boat operators to always take the issue of overloading very seriously. They should know that they can still get profit without overloading their boats,” the governor said.

Mr Ganduje added that it was unfortunate that a similar incident was recorded some years ago in the same area.

“People should know that the lives of their fellow human beings are too important to be risked deliberately,” the governor stated.

He added, “We salute the courage and patriot (sic) posture of the rescue teams.” 

(NAN)