Eight die, nine missing in Jigawa boat tragedy

At least eight people have died and nine remain missing following a tragic boat accident in Jigawa State, northern Nigeria. The incident occurred on Sunday when a wooden boat carrying about 40 passengers capsized while crossing a waterway in Malamawar-Yan Dutse, Ringim Local Government Area.

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At the moment, we have successfully rescued 23 victims alive. Unfortunately, we have also recovered eight corpses from the river.

The passengers were primarily female farmers and laborers. Twenty-three individuals were successfully rescued alive. Search and rescue operations, involving local divers, emergency responders, and security personnel, have been ongoing since the incident to recover the bodies of the deceased and locate the missing passengers.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Jigawa State Police Command, SP Shi’isu Adam, confirmed the casualty figures and stated that the search for the remaining nine passengers would continue. He assured that all rescued victims received medical attention and have been reunited with their families.

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We are not relenting. Our teams are combing the river and adjoining communities to ensure we find the remaining nine persons.

Boat accidents are a recurring problem in Nigeria's riverine communities, especially during the rainy season. Factors contributing to these tragedies often include overloading, the failure to use life jackets, and strong water currents. Authorities are appealing to residents of riverine communities for information that could aid the rescue efforts and are urging boat operators to strictly avoid overloading and ensure all passengers wear life jackets.

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Our teams are combing the river and adjoining communities to ensure we find the remaining nine persons.