No fewer than 27 persons have lost their lives in a boat mishap that occurred in Gbajibo, Kaiama local government area of Kwara State.
LEADERSHIP gathered that the incident occurred on Thursday when the victims were returning from Niger State where they had gone for trading activities at a weekly market.
A survivor who blamed the incident on overloading said mishap happened at night.
Chairman of Kaiama local government area, Hon Abdullah Danladi confirmed the boat mishap on Sunday during a telephone conversation with LEADERSHIP.
Danladi said he had led a government delegation to commiserate with the families of the victims.
He added that the government will set up a committee which will be saddled with the responsibility of enforcing the compulsory usage of life jacket by boat passengers.
Danladi said the government would also halt night travelling as part of measures to put an end to the incessant boat mishap in the riverine areas.
The Emir of Kaiama, Alh Muazu Omar has also expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident.
The monarch said efforts would be intensified to ensure that passengers and boat operators adhere to water traveling safety protocols.