Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi says no fewer than 97 bodies have been recovered from the recent boat tragedy at Warrah, Ngaski local government area.

Mr Bagudu stated this in Birnin Kebbi when he received a delegation of the House of Representatives on a condolence visit.

A boat from Lokon Minna, Niger, conveying traders, artisanal miners, and other passengers, capsized at Warrah, Ngaski, killing more than 100 people on June 2. Twenty-two persons were rescued.

Represented by Secretary to the Kebbi State Government Babale Umar-Yauri, the governor said the victims had been buried.

Mr Bagudu thanked the federal lawmakers for their foresight in ensuring safety in the nation’s waterways, particularly marine transportation.

He extended the goodwill message of the Kebbi government to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, for his condolences, care and love to the people of the state.

The delegation also visited the Emir of Yauri, Muhammadu Zayyanu-Abdullahi.

Earlier, the Deputy Speaker, Ahmed Idris-Wase, who led the delegation, advocated collective efforts to mitigate boat mishaps in the country effectively.

Idris-Wase said, “As leaders, all hands must be on deck to evolve a correct, effective and permanent solution to mishaps of boats and canoes on the waterways.

“As members, we shall examine the causes of recurring maritime transport accidents with a view to coming up with measures and avoid recurrence of mishaps.

“It is a colossal loss not only to Kebbi but the entire country.

“It is our fervent prayers that Allah will give their families the fortitude to bear the loss.”

(NAN)