The Nasarawa State House of Assembly revealed that 12 people died in a boat mishap at river Kogi Kungra Kamfani in Arikiya electoral ward of Lafia Local of Government Area of the state on Aug. 20.

This was made known by the Speaker of the House, Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi during an emergency sitting of the House on Thursday in Lafia.

Abdullahi commiserated with the State and Lafia Local Government over the unfortunate incident.

He also condoled with the bereaved families over the death of their loved ones.

“It is very sad that we lost 12 people, men and women, in a boat mishap in Arikiya, Lafia LGA.

“Nineteen people were on board, 12 died and seven rescued. Lafia LGA and our dear state have been thrown into mourning over this sad incident,” he said.

The House, which described the incident as unfortunate, however, urged the family, the people of Lafia LGA and the state government to bear the irreparable loss.

“On behalf of myself, Honourable members and the staff, we condole with the bereaved families, Lafia LGA and the state government over their death.

“We pray for the repose of their souls,” the speaker said.

He prayed to God to forgive the victims their shortcomings and grant them eternal rest.

The lawmakers later observed a minute silence in honor of the departed souls.