The Governorship Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Sokoto State, Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, has expressed deep sorrow over the reported boat accident in Gorau town, Goronyo Local Government Area, where about 40 people are feared dead after a canoe conveying farmers to their rice farms capsized shortly after departure.
In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Aminu Abdullahi, Hon. Dan’iya described the incident as a devastating tragedy, particularly because many of those reportedly on board were children between the ages of 10 and 15 who were travelling with farmers and labourers to access rice farms. Reports indicate that more than 70 people may have been on the boat, while rescue teams and local divers are still searching for missing persons and recovering bodies.
The ADC candidate extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, the Gorau community, Goronyo Local Government and the entire people of Sokoto State. He prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and for the safe recovery of anyone still missing, while commending local divers and residents who have been participating in the rescue operation.
Hon. Dan’iya urged the Sokoto State Government and relevant emergency agencies to immediately mobilise additional rescue personnel, medical teams and equipment to the affected community to support the ongoing search and provide medical attention to survivors. He also called for proper identification and documentation of the victims to assist their families during this difficult period.
The ADC gubernatorial candidate stressed that the incident highlights the urgent need for safer means of transportation for farming communities located across waterways, particularly during peak agricultural seasons. He called for comprehensive assessment of local waterways, provision of safe and adequately regulated boats, life jackets, trained operators, emergency response equipment and accessible bridges or alternative crossings where necessary.
Hon. Dan’iya said the safety and welfare of rural communities must remain a fundamental responsibility of government, particularly when citizens are travelling to farms to produce food and sustain their families. He reaffirmed that an ADC administration in Sokoto would prioritise rural infrastructure, agricultural development and community safety, ensuring that farmers are not forced to risk their lives simply to access their means of livelihood.
He prayed Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, grant them Aljannatul Firdaus, comfort their bereaved families and grant the rescuers success in locating those still missing. He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with emergency responders as rescue operations continue.
Signed:
Aminu Abdullahi
Media Aide
