The Zamfara State Government has confirmed the tragic death of 40 people following a boat mishap in Gummi Local Government Area on Sunday.
The boat, carrying more than 40 passengers, capsized in the Bakin Kasuwa River near Uban Dawaki community.
The incident was confirmed by Sulaiman Idris, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Publicity, who described it as a monumental disaster. In response, Governor Dauda Lawal expressed his deep condolences to the victims’ families, calling the tragedy heartbreaking.
“We received the tragic report of a boat accident in Bakin Kasuwa River in Uban Dawaki ward, Gummi Local Government Area, resulting in the loss of over 40 lives.
“The governor has directed the State Emergency Management Agency, to begin immediate rescue and recovery of the dead bodies.
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”The governor also directed the agency to take immediate action to assess the extent of the accident and provide urgent assistance,” Idris stated.
Additionally, the Commissioner for Humanitarian and Relief Matters has been tasked with providing immediate relief materials to the families affected by the tragedy.
Governor Lawal extended his prayers for the departed souls and assured residents that the state government will take steps to prevent such occurrences in the future.
This tragic incident follows a recent flood disaster in the same local government area, which destroyed over 2,000 homes and farmlands valued at millions of naira.
Boat accidents are a recurring tragedy on Nigeria’s underregulated waterways, especially during the rainy season when rivers and lakes swell. Despite the increased danger, many boats lack essential safety measures like life jackets, putting passengers at high risk. Local residents have long raised concerns about the absence of proper regulations and safety protocols.
Zamfara State, where the recent boat mishap occurred, faces additional challenges beyond its poorly maintained waterways. The region is plagued by armed groups involved in kidnapping for ransom, cattle rustling, and illegal mining. These security issues, combined with the lack of infrastructure and oversight on the waterways, further endanger the lives of those living in the area.
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