Dan’iya Mourns Goronyo Boat Crash Victims, Calls for Urgent Rescue, Safety Measures
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Hon. Munir Muhammad Dan’iya, has expressed deep sorrow over a boat accident in Gorau town, Goronyo Local Government Area, where about 40 people are feared dead.
The incident occurred when a canoe carrying farmers and other passengers to their rice farms reportedly capsized shortly after departure. More than 70 people were said to have been on board, with many of them reportedly children between the ages of 10 and 15.
In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Aminu Abdullahi, Dan’iya described the incident as a devastating tragedy and extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, the Gorau community, Goronyo Local Government and the people of Sokoto State.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and the safe recovery of those still missing, while commending local divers and residents involved in the ongoing rescue efforts.
The ADC candidate called on the Sokoto State Government and relevant emergency agencies to urgently deploy additional rescue personnel, medical teams and equipment to the affected community to strengthen the search operation and provide medical attention to survivors.
He also urged authorities to properly identify and document the victims to assist their families during the difficult period.
Dan’iya said the incident underscored the urgent need to provide safer means of transportation for farming communities located around waterways, particularly during peak agricultural seasons.
He called for comprehensive assessments of local waterways, provision of safe and regulated boats, life jackets, trained boat operators, emergency response equipment and bridges or alternative crossings where necessary.
According to him, the safety and welfare of rural communities must remain a fundamental responsibility of government, stressing that farmers should not be forced to risk their lives simply to access their means of livelihood.
Dan’iya further pledged that an ADC administration in Sokoto would prioritise rural infrastructure, agricultural development and community safety.
He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with emergency responders as rescue operations continue.
The ADC candidate 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.
