…Moves against negative effects of boat mishaps

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has flagged off the clearing of waterways and distribution of life jackets to communities in the riverine areas of Ondo State.

During the flag-off event, held at Oil Mill down to Ebute Irele in Okitipupa Local Government Area of the state and initiated by the State Ministry of Transport, Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that the proactive steps were aimed at protecting citizens from boat mishaps or mitigating negative outcomes in the event of any incident.

The Governor, represented by his Special Adviser on Transport, Akogun Olugbenga Omole, explained that the projects would be carried out in the four affected local government areas of Ilaje, Ese-Odo, Okitipupa, and Irele.

Omole, a former state lawmaker, said: “It gives me great joy to welcome you all to this auspicious occasion of the flag-off of the handing over of life jackets to beneficiaries in the riverine LGAs in Ondo State.

“This year, activities will be carried out in the four affected LGAs of Ilaje, Ese-Odo, Okitipupa, and Irele. Permit me to reiterate the fact once again that today’s activity would not have been possible if not for the kind approval of our loving Governor, who in his characteristic grace has provided every support needed for the success of the two programmes.

“I am particularly delighted that the government of our amiable Governor, His Excellency Honourable Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, is taking proactive steps to protect our citizens against negative outcomes in the event of any boat mishap.

“The event of today is quite significant when viewed against the background of several unfortunate incidents in Kebbi, Kogi, Niger, and Kwara states in the last few months that led to unnecessary loss of lives. Once again, we sympathise with the people and government of the affected states.

“It is our firm belief that water transportation can be safe and, at the same time, smooth, devoid of any barriers or obstacles on our waterways.

“That is why the event of today is not only about making life jackets available for travellers on our waterways but also about commencing the clearing of water hyacinth from our waterways, so as to facilitate hitch-free commuting, thereby promoting commerce in these communities and enhancing sustainable livelihood.

“On this note, I hereby, on behalf of the people’s Governor, flag off the distribution of life jackets and clearing of inland waterways in the riverine areas of Ondo State, to the glory of God and for the benefit of the good people of Ondo State,” Akogun Omole said.

Some of the fly boat operators, through their leaders, Tosin Adebusoye, Chairman of Oluwa Boys, and Sunday Ijitade, Chairman of the Idepe/Okitipupa branch, expressed appreciation to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Ministry of Transportation under Hon. Olugbenga Omole for coming to their aid at this critical time.

They noted that the clearing project and provision of life jackets for their operations would enhance their daily income and prevent their boats from developing faults incessantly.

On his part, a Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Gbayi Semoreorioye, applauded the operators for their massive support for Governor Aiyedatiwa, promising that they would continue to benefit from more dividends of democracy under the present administration.