The people of Ibaji Local Government Area in Kogi State have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently construct a bridge across the River Niger and complete the long-abandoned Idah–Ibaji–Anambra Federal Highway, describing it as a permanent solution to the recurring loss of lives caused by boat mishaps in the area.
This passionate appeal is contained in a statement jointly signed by the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Coterie of Ibaji Youths of Nigeria (COIYN), Mr. Tony Edike, and the National Coordinator, Mr. Jerry Nwuchola, and issued in Abuja.
According to the statement, the renewed call follows the devastating boat accident of Tuesday, September 29th, in which a large wooden boat carrying farmers and traders from Ibaji to Ilushi Market in Edo State capsized on the River Niger.
“At least 30 bodies have been recovered, with several passengers still missing,” the statement said. “The victims were on their way to sell agricultural produce ahead of Nigeria’s 60th Independence celebration.”
The statement urges President Tinubu to take decisive and compassionate action by approving the construction of a bridge and completing the long-delayed highway project to provide a safe, reliable alternative to dangerous river travel.
“Without motorable roads and a bridge to connect Ibaji to markets in Kogi, Anambra, Edo, and Delta States, residents are forced to rely on risky boat journeys—often in overcrowded wooden canoes—to transport foodstuffs such as rice, cassava, yams, and vegetables,” the statement lamented.
COIYN stresses that lasting safety for the people of Ibaji cannot be achieved through temporary palliatives or condolence messages alone, but through sustainable infrastructure development.
It says in addition to the bridge and highway, the group called for the establishment of a modern, centrally located produce market within Ibaji, which would drastically reduce the need for farmers to travel long distances to sell their goods, while also boosting the local economy and employment.
The statement describes the appeal as a plea to end “the unending tragedies of boat mishaps” and to immortalise the victims of the latest disaster through life-saving infrastructure that would serve generations to come.
“Hope is not a slogan. It is a lifeline,”
“Let a bridge and a modern market in Ibaji be the legacy that shows this government truly hears the cries of the forgotten.”
