At least 25 people have lost their lives after a passenger boat capsized during a night journey in northeastern Nigeria. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday evening and has once again highlighted serious safety concerns surrounding water transport in the country. Officials confirmed that several passengers are still missing, while rescue operations continue.
The accident involved a large wooden canoe transporting dozens of traders between two states in the region.
Boat Overturns During Night Journey Between Jigawa and Yobe
According to officials, the boat capsized just before 8:00 pm local time. It had departed from Adiyani village in northwestern Jigawa State and was heading toward Garbi in Yobe State. The journey was taking place on a busy market day, with many passengers returning home after trading.
Mohammed Goje, head of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency, said the canoe was carrying 52 passengers. He confirmed that 13 people were rescued alive. However, 25 bodies have been recovered so far. Fourteen passengers remain unaccounted for.
Emergency responders launched search and rescue efforts shortly after the incident was reported. Teams from nearby towns joined local volunteers, police, and other security agencies. Divers were also deployed to help recover bodies from the water.
Authorities fear the death toll could rise if the missing passengers are not found alive.
Police Cite Leakage, Negligence, and Safety Violations
Police in Jigawa State confirmed the incident and said preliminary investigations pointed to leakage in the canoe. Lawan Adam, the state police spokesperson, stated that the vessel was not seaworthy.
He also revealed that multiple safety regulations were ignored. These included bans on night-time water travel and restrictions on overloading passenger boats. Adam said that if the boat operator survived the crash, he would face prosecution for negligence.
Residents said the alarm was raised when the boat failed to arrive at its destination on time. Babagana Shettima, a resident of Adiyani village, said victims came from both the departure and destination communities. He explained that relatives became worried after long delays and later learned the canoe had capsized midway through the journey.
Recurring Deadly Boat Accidents in Nigeria
Boat accidents are a frequent and deadly occurrence in Nigeria, especially in rural areas where waterways are commonly used for transport. Many vessels operate without life jackets, proper maintenance, or enforcement of safety laws.
In September, at least 60 people were killed in Niger State when an overloaded boat sank after hitting a tree stump. Similar incidents have been reported across several states, often involving traders, students, and villagers.
Authorities and safety experts continue to call for stricter enforcement of maritime safety rules. However, poor regulation and limited alternatives leave many communities vulnerable.
As rescue efforts continue in Yobe State, families wait anxiously for news of missing loved ones.
