A canoe accident in northeastern Nigeria has resulted in multiple fatalities and a frantic search for missing passengers, according to state emergency officials.
At least 25 people are confirmed dead and 14 others remain missing after a canoe carrying 52 passengers capsized on Saturday evening. The incident occurred around 7:48 p.m. along a waterway connecting Jigawa and Yobe states. The vessel was traveling from Adiyani town in Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru LGA, Yobe State.
Initial reports suggest the victims were local traders, farmers, and fishermen returning from daily commercial activities in Adiyani when the boat overturned mid-journey.
Mohammed Goje, Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency, confirmed the incident in an exclusive interview. He stated that the agency activated its emergency response after receiving a distress call.
“Preliminary reports available to us indicate that 52 persons were on board the canoe before it capsized, resulting in confirmed fatalities, rescues, and some passengers still missing,” Goje said.
He confirmed that 13 passengers have been rescued alive and are receiving medical attention, while recovery efforts continue for those still unaccounted for.
A coordinated search and rescue operation involving local emergency teams from Bade and Nguru, security agencies, and community volunteers is underway.
“We are committed to ensuring that all missing persons are accounted for, while recovered victims are given proper medical and humanitarian support,” Goje added.
The cause of the capsizing is not yet confirmed, and investigations are ongoing as rescue efforts intensify along the waterway.
