Five people lost their lives in a canoe accident in Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
The tragic event occurred around noon on Thursday when a canoe carrying twenty passengers capsized while crossing the Gamoda River near Nahuce village.
In a statement, the Jigawa State Police Command reported that upon receiving the distress call, a team of policemen, local divers, and Good Samaritans immediately rushed to the scene to carry out rescue operations.
“Regrettably, five of the passengers were found dead,” said Lawan Shiisu Adam, the spokesperson for the Jigawa State Police.
The victims have been identified as Abdurra’uf Mohd, 15; Suleman Ali, 20; Shafiu Mohd, 25; Ado Nafance, 75; and Alasan Mohd, 16, all from Taura LGA. Efforts are still ongoing to rescue the remaining passengers.
The Commissioner of Police for Jigawa State, Amad Abdullahi, expressed his deep condolences to the victims’ families.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the immediate families of the deceased and pray for the departed souls to find eternal peace,” he said.
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of water transportation, especially in rural areas where river crossings are common.
The police have reassured the public that they will continue to work closely with local authorities to enhance safety measures in the region and prevent future incidents.