Deadly Incident in Niger State
At least 60 people have died after a passenger boat capsized in north-central Nigeria’s Niger State on Tuesday morning. The vessel, carrying more than 100 passengers, struck a submerged tree stump near Gausawa community in Borgu Local Government Area.
Rising Casualties and Survivors
Local officials confirmed that the death toll continues to rise. Abdullahi Baba Ara, chairman of Borgu, reported 60 confirmed deaths and 10 seriously injured survivors. Dozens more remain unaccounted for, prompting urgent rescue efforts.
Eyewitness Accounts of the Tragedy
Sa’adu Inuwa Muhammad, district head of Shagumi, said he reached the site shortly after the incident. Between noon and 4pm, he helped recover 31 bodies. He confirmed that women and children were the majority among the dead. Four victims were buried immediately in accordance with Islamic traditions.
Search and Rescue Operations
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency reported 29 confirmed deaths and 50 rescues, with two individuals still missing. Emergency personnel and local divers continue searching for victims. Authorities confirmed the boat was overloaded and collided with a tree stump, which caused it to capsize.
Safety Concerns in Nigerian Waters
Boat accidents are frequent in Nigeria, especially during the rainy season. Overcrowding, lax safety enforcement, and poorly maintained vessels significantly contribute to these recurring tragedies. The government faces pressure to strengthen regulations and improve water transport safety standards.
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