The Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Dr Adewole Adebayo, has expressed deep sorrow over the reported death of about 40 passengers in a boat accident in Gorau community, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Adebayo, in a condolence message on Saturday, described the incident as a “heartbreaking tragedy” that had plunged families and the entire community into grief.

He commiserated with the families of the victims, the people of Goronyo and the Sokoto State Government, while urging authorities to intensify rescue and recovery efforts.

Reports indicate that the boat, which was carrying about 40 passengers, including men, women and children, capsized on Thursday.

“Rescue operations were reportedly still ongoing, with the exact number of casualties yet to be officially confirmed.

Adebayo said the reported loss of so many lives in a single incident was devastating and should not be treated as merely another unfortunate accident.

He commended rescuers, local fishermen, community members and others involved in the search and recovery efforts, urging relevant authorities to do everything possible to account for the victims.

The SDP presidential candidate also raised concerns over the recurrence of deadly boat accidents in Sokoto State, noting that the latest incident occurred barely a year after another boat mishap claimed 10 lives.

In September 2025, a boat carrying residents of Zalla-Bango village who were reportedly fleeing armed bandits capsized in Sabon Birni Local Government Area, resulting in the drowning of all 10 passengers on board.

Adebayo said the recurrence of such tragedies should compel authorities to take urgent and concrete measures to improve water transportation safety across the country.

“Beyond condolences, we must learn from such tragedies and take concrete measures to prevent avoidable deaths. The safety of Nigerians travelling by waterways must receive the same seriousness accorded to other forms of transportation,” he said.

He called for stronger safety regulations, improved monitoring of boats and waterways, and the deployment of adequate emergency response mechanisms to protect passengers.

Adebayo prayed for the repose of the souls of those who died and asked God to grant their families and loved ones the strength to bear the painful loss.

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