Support Families of Gombe River Accident Victims, Reps Tell FG

The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to provide immediate relief to families affected by a boat accident on the Nafada River in Gombe State that claimed five lives.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance by Abdullahi El-Rasheed, representing the Dukku/Nafada Federal Constituency.

The victims, including four young girls and a boy, reportedly died on Saturday, 25 October 2025, while travelling on a river boat.

Highlighting concerns over maritime safety, El-Rasheed stressed the need for stricter regulatory oversight and adherence to operational guidelines.

“Unless relevant agencies intensify monitoring and enforce compliance with safety standards, such tragedies will continue,” he warned.

In response to the motion, the House observed a minute of silence in honour of the deceased and extended condolences to the bereaved families.

Lawmakers also called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the North-East Development Commission to urgently provide relief materials and support to the affected households and communities.

Boat accidents remain a recurring hazard across Nigeria’s waterways, particularly in rural areas, underscoring the ongoing need for stronger enforcement of maritime safety protocols.