Certainly, here’s a rewritten version of the news article in a more natural way:
Tragedy struck in the Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, as at least 24 people, mostly women and children, lost their lives when a boat capsized. Reports indicate that the boat was carrying over 100 passengers, including women and children, traveling from neighboring communities to New Gbajibo Resettlement on their way to Old Gbajibo.
These unfortunate victims, hailing from Gbajibo, Ekwa, and Yankyade communities, were en route to engage in farming activities when the incident occurred on Sunday morning, September 10, 2023, between 7:30 and 8. The local council chairman, Jibrim Muregi, confirmed the accident, but the exact number of travelers remains uncertain.
Rescue efforts are underway, with 21 bodies recovered so far through a joint operation involving marine police, local divers, and the Niger State Emergency Management Agency. Meanwhile, Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, expressed his shock over the boat mishap, describing it as a terrible and unfortunate incident.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Governor Bago extended his condolences to the families of the victims and directed the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) to provide necessary assistance to those affected. He also offered prayers for the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
Governor Bago emphasized the importance of using life jackets when boarding boats and urged people to avoid overcrowding them. The victims have been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic customs.
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