Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has expressed grief over the boat accident in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, which claimed at least 29 lives.

The tragedy occurred on Monday in Gausawa community, Malale Ward, when a wooden boat carrying about 90 passengers capsized after colliding with a tree stump. Women and children were among the victims, with overloading cited as a possible cause.

In a condolence message on Thursday, Atiku described the accident as a reminder of the urgent need to strengthen safety on Nigeria’s waterways. He called for stricter enforcement of safety standards, compulsory use of life jackets, and adherence to passenger limits.

He extended condolences to the families of the victims, the Gausawa community, and the Niger State government, praying for comfort for the bereaved and eternal rest for the dead.\r\n