Tragedy struck in Niger State as an overloaded boat carrying over 100 passengers capsized near Gausawa community in Borgu Local Government Area, leaving at least 60 people dead and many more rescued.
The vessel, which set off from Tungan Sule in Malale district, was heading to Dugga for a condolence visit when it hit a submerged tree stump around 11 a.m. local time on Tuesday, according to Niger State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
Abdullahi Baba Ara, chairperson of Borgu Local Government, said, “The death toll continues to rise. Ten people are in critical condition, and many are still missing.” Rescue teams, including local divers, are tirelessly searching for victims.
District head Sa’adu Inuwa Muhammad, present at the scene, confirmed, “We recovered 31 bodies from the river. Four victims have been buried in accordance with Islamic rites.” Women and children composed the majority of the casualties.
Boat accidents are a frequent occurrence in Nigeria’s riverine communities, especially during the rainy season, primarily caused by overcrowding, poor vessel maintenance, and lax enforcement of safety regulations.
Federal Minister of Information Mohammed Idris extended condolences to the families affected and called on travellers to observe safety measures, emphasising, “No one should embark on boat journeys without wearing appropriate life jackets. Safety precautions save lives.
