Jigawa Boat Accident: One Body Recovered, Search Ongoing for 39 Others

One Confirmed Dead, 39 Missing After Boat Capsizes in Jigawa

One person has been confirmed dead, while 39 others are still missing after a passenger boat capsized in Malamawar Yan Dutse community, Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

The incident occurred on Sunday evening when the locally built boat, carrying more than 40 passengers—mostly female farmers and farm labourers—overturned while travelling across the waterway.

Confirming the accident, the Jigawa State Police Command said officers were immediately deployed to the scene after receiving reports of the mishap.

Police spokesperson, SP Shi’isu Adam, said one body had been recovered, while search and rescue operations were continuing to locate the remaining passengers.

He explained that security personnel are working alongside emergency responders and other relevant agencies to search the area, adding that more information would be released as the operation progresses.

The Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency also confirmed the incident, noting that many of those onboard were travelling to their farms when the accident occurred. Officials said investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the boat capsize.

Meanwhile, local divers and community volunteers have joined emergency teams in the rescue effort.

Authorities have appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information as the search for the missing passengers continues.

Boat accidents remain a recurring concern in several riverine communities across northern Nigeria, particularly during the rainy season, with factors such as overcrowding, strong currents and poor safety measures often contributing to such tragedies.

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