ABBAS calls for stringent enforcement of safety measures after Yobe boat tragedy

Tuesday, January 6, 2026 - The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has expressed deep sadness over a boat tragedy that claimed 29 people and left several others injured in Yobe State.

He, however, called for stricter regulations and enforcement of safety measures to protect Nigerians who rely on waterways for transportation.

In a condolence message issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, the Speaker lamented the tragic incident, which occurred on Saturday in Garbi town, Nguru Local Government Area.

Abbas extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, as well as the people and government of Yobe State, describing the incident as a painful loss not only to the affected communities but to the nation at large.

“This unfortunate incident has left us all in deep mourning, robbing families of their loved ones and communities of their vibrant members.

“I pray for the repose of the souls of the departed. May Allah also grant quick recovery to the injured and fortify the survivors with strength during this trying time,” the statement read.

The Speaker’s reaction comes against the backdrop of recurring boat accidents across different parts of the country, particularly in riverine and lakeside communities where waterways serve as major transport routes.

In recent years, several fatal incidents have been recorded in Niger, Kwara, Kebbi, Bayelsa, and Lagos states, often resulting in the loss of dozens of lives. Many of these accidents have been linked to overloading, poor vessel maintenance, night travel, lack of life jackets, and weak enforcement of safety regulations.

Despite repeated calls by government officials and safety agencies for compliance with maritime rules, boat mishaps continue to pose a serious threat to lives, especially in rural areas where alternative means of transportation are limited.

Abbas stressed the need for sustained collaboration between relevant authorities and local communities to improve safety standards on Nigeria’s inland waterways, noting that preventable tragedies must no longer be allowed to persist.