One Dead, Six Missing as Overloaded Canoe Capsizes in Jigawa

One person has been confirmed dead while six others remain missing after a canoe carrying about 25 passengers capsized in Malamawa Yandutse, near Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

The tragic incident occurred at about 2:40 p.m. on Saturday as the canoe, conveying passengers from different communities, was crossing a river.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Jigawa State Command, confirmed the accident in a statement issued on Sunday by its Public Relations Officer, ASC Badruddeen Tijjani Mahmud.

According to the NSCDC, 16 passengers were rescued alive, while search teams later recovered the body of eight-year-old Aisha Nura, alongside two other victims from Malamawa Yandutse.

However, one death has so far been officially confirmed, while six passengers remain unaccounted for as rescue operations continue.

A survivor, Malam Dahiru of Malamawa Yandutse, said the majority of those on board were women and children. He added that many of the victims were females between the ages of seven and 24.

The NSCDC attributed the accident to suspected overloading of the canoe, noting that investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the incident.

The command expressed condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the safe rescue of those still missing. It also commended local residents and emergency responders for their swift efforts in the ongoing search and rescue operation.

The agency urged canoe operators and passengers to adhere strictly to water transportation safety regulations by avoiding overloading, wearing life jackets, and observing other safety precautions, especially during the rainy season when water levels and currents are stronger.

The NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders to improve water transportation safety and protect lives across Jigawa State.

Editor’s Note: There is an apparent inconsistency in the original statement. It says one person has been confirmed dead, but later states that the body of Aisha Nura, along with two other victims, was recovered.

It may be worth seeking clarification from the NSCDC before publication to ensure the casualty figure is accurate.