Boat Accident in Yobe - 25 Dead, 14 Missing
On the
evening of Saturday, January 3, 2026, tragedy struck in Nguru Local Government
Area of Yobe State when a canoe carrying 52 passengers capsized while
travelling from Adiyani in Jigawa State to Garbi community in Yobe.
The accident occurred at approximately 7:48 pm, leaving devastation in its wake.
According
to the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency
(SEMA), Mohammed Goje, preliminary reports confirmed that 25 people lost their
lives, 13 were rescued, and 14 remain missing as rescue operations continue.
Most of
the victims are believed to be fishermen returning to their base after a day’s
work. Emergency officials swiftly mobilized to the scene, working tirelessly to
recover bodies and search for survivors.
Governor
Mai Mala Buni expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended condolences
to the families of the deceased. He directed that immediate medical and logistical
support be provided to survivors and victims’ families to ensure prompt
treatment and relief.
The
governor’s intervention underscores the gravity of the disaster and the state’s
commitment to supporting those affected.
Nguru,
the site of the accident, lies about 230 kilometres from Damaturu, the state
capital. The incident highlights the dangers associated with water
transportation in rural communities, where canoes remain a primary means of
travel despite limited safety measures.
This
tragic event has reignited discussions around the need for stricter
regulations, improved safety standards, and better emergency preparedness in
Nigeria’s riverine areas.
As rescue
operations continue, the fate of the 14 missing passengers remains uncertain,
casting a somber shadow over the communities of Jigawa and Yobe.
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