The management of Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission has linked the high number of deaths recorded in recent boat mishap in Kwara state to non-adherent to safety precautions on the part of those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident.
The Managing Director of the Commission, Abubakar Yelwa who was represented by Director of Community in the agency, Mahmud Umar gave the revelation during presentation of subsidized fertilizers to victims of flood in the five riverine local government areas in the state.
According to the Managing Director of the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Commission (HYPPADEC), Abubakar Yelwa, the Commission spent over one point six billion naira on the distribution of life jackets to the locals in the riverine communities last year with a view to preventing deaths in the event of any form of boat mishap.
Yelwa however regretted that despite appeals for rural dwellers to use life jackets when on boat ride fell on deaf ears.
Abubakar yelwa seized the opportunity of the event to call on the Kwara State House of Assembly to enact laws which will compel rural dwellers in the riverine communities and boat operators to use life jackets while traveling on water.
Over one hundred lives were lost to the boat mishap while about one hundred and forty four survivors have so far been rescued.
Discover more from LN247
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
