Nigeria Boat Tragedy Leaves 25 Dead, 14 Missing

A tragic boat accident in Nigeria has resulted in the deaths of 25 people, while 14 others remain missing. The incident occurred when an overloaded vessel sank, triggering urgent search and rescue operations by local authorities and emergency teams. Officials are investigating the cause of the accident, with early reports pointing to safety lapses and poor weather conditions. The tragedy has once again highlighted ongoing concerns around water transport safety in the region.

The tragedy unfolded shortly before 8 pm on Saturday, as a large canoe travelling between states lost balance and overturned during its evening journey. Officials reported that at least 25 lives were lost, while 14 passengers are still unaccounted for after the crowded vessel went down in Yobe State in northeastern Nigeria.

The canoe had set off from Adiyani village in Jigawa State and was heading toward Garbi in Yobe when it capsized mid-route. Authorities said 52 people were on board at the time. Rescue efforts have so far pulled 13 survivors from the water, with 25 bodies recovered. Search teams continue to comb the area for those still missing, supported by emergency responders, security personnel, and local volunteers.

Police confirmed the canoe overturned after developing a leak. The victims were returning home from a busy market day, and officials noted that safety rules prohibiting night travel and overloading were ignored. Authorities said the driver could face charges if found alive. Residents said families grew anxious when the boat failed to arrive on time, prompting a search that led to the grim discovery. Divers were later deployed to recover bodies from the water.

Such fatal incidents are all too common in Nigeria, where many boats operate without proper safety measures. Just months ago, an overloaded vessel in Niger State claimed at least 60 lives after crashing into a submerged tree stump.

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Source: NDTV‍