By Abubakar Ohida
Some prominent political leaders, from across Kogi West Senatorial District of Kogi state, have provided succour and financial assistance to victims of the Ebbe boat mishap as part of efforts tailored towards ameliorating the suffering of the bereaved families as well as the survivors and their dependents .
It would be recalled that the incident which occurred on Thursday, November 28, 2024, resulted in significant casualties when a boat transporting passengers from Kupa Ebe to Katcha Market capsized near Kpata Danbo. Despite rescue efforts, many lives were lost along with goods worth thousands of naira.
The Senator representing the district, Hon.Sunday Karimi, was part of the team that donated cash as a means of cushioning the effects of the incidence on the affected persons.
The delegation of personalities from Lokoja 2 constituency with support from the political class and community leaders from across Lokoja and Koton-Karfe were able to reach out to the victims of the boat mishap.
Alhaji Suleiman Baba Ali who coordinated and distributed the cash gifts to the affected victims was received in the community the paramount ruler of the kingdom, Maiyaki of Kupa, HRH Alh. Dauda Kabir Isa.
The delegation was however headed by Alhaji Haruna Isah, and was accompanied by the former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Dangana, who was also a one time Speaker, Kogi State House of Assembly as well as community leader, Hon Ishiaku Kasim amongst others.
According to Alhaji Haruna Isa, the donors provided relief materials to affected families and ensured survivors received financial assistance to enable them get back on their feet.
He said the assistance was designed to reduce the pains of family of the victims and not compensation for their losses. He equally used the forum express gratitude to all the donors for their expression of love and concern.
Alhaji Isa praised the leadership qualities of the Maiyaki of Kupa, HRH Alh Dauda Kabir Isa and the leader of Lokoja/Koton-Karfe, Alh. Suleiman Baba Ali for their support to the people.
Responding on behalf of the victims from Kupa community, HRH , the Maiyaki of Kupa, Alh. Dauda Kabir Isa, expressed appreciation to the donors for their assistance and show of love to the families, saying the gesture was well appreciated.
He prayed Almighty Allah to prevent a reoccurrence of such ugly incidents.
The royal father also applauded the head of the delegation, Alh. Haruna Isa for his efforts and sincerity of purpose in handling the affairs of Ebbe boat mishap support exercise along with all members of delegation.
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of support to all the victims including members of families of those that lost their lives and property in the tragic boat mishap.
Among the major donors were Sen. Karimi who provided N10m, a member House of Reps, Hon Danladi Aguye who donated N2m. Others include Barr. Sunday Ehimoni,Hon Haruna Tanko, Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon Danladi Farouk among several others.
