Boat Mishap : Ibaji Residents Appeal For Construction Of Bridge

The people of Ibaji Local Government Area in Kogi state have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to construct a bridge and complete the long-abandoned Idah–Ibaji–Anambra Highway, as a permanent solution to the recurring loss of lives on the River Niger.

This is contained in a statement jointly signed by Chairman Board of Trustees of Coterie of Ibaji Youths of Nigeria, COIYN), Mr. Tony Edike, and the National Coordinator, Mr. Jerry Nwuchola, in Abuja.

According to the statement, the appeal comes after a devastating accident on Tuesday, September 29th, when a large wooden boat carrying farmers and traders from Ibaji to Ilushi Market in Edo State capsized.

“At least 30 bodies have been recovered, with several passengers still missing. The victims were en route to sell agricultural produce ahead of Nigeria’s 60th Independence celebration”.

It calls on President Tinubu to take decisive action by constructing a bridge across the River Niger and completing the Idah–Ibaji–Otuocha Federal Highway, to provide a safe and reliable alternative to dangerous river travel.

“Without motorable roads and a bridge to connect them to markets in Kogi, Anambra, Edo, and Delta States, residents are forced to rely on risky boat journeys, often in overcrowded wooden canoes, to transport foodstuffs such as rice, cassava, yams, and vegetables”.

The statement insists that lasting safety can only come through solid infrastructure, not temporary fixes while also asking for the construction of a modern produce market within Ibaji, to reduce the need for residents to travel long distances to sell their goods.

The statement explains that the plea is to end “the unending tragedies of boat mishaps” and to immortalise the victims of the latest disaster with projects that would protect future generations.

“Hope is not a slogan. It is a lifeline. Let a bridge and a modern market in Ibaji be the legacy that shows this government truly hears the cries of the forgotten.”

PR/Georgina Humphrey