A tragic boat accident has occurred at Malamawa community, ‘Yan Dutse district of Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State, leaving one person dead and many missing.

The incident, which happened on Sunday, involved a boat reportedly conveying about 40 passengers, mostly women and children.

It suddenly capsized, while crossing a waterway in the area.

The Jigawa State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, SP Shi’isu Lawan Adam.

Adam disclosed that one body has so far been recovered, while search-and-rescue teams were continuing efforts to locate the remaining passengers who are still unaccounted for.

“The rescue operation is ongoing, and security personnel, alongside emergency responders and volunteers, are working tirelessly to search for those still missing,” the police spokesperson stated.

The incident has thrown the Malamawa community into mourning, with anxious relatives and residents gathering along the riverbank as rescue operations continue.

A separate statement released by the Ringim Emirate Council also confirmed the tragic incident, noting that the boat mishap resulted in loss of lives.

However, the council said efforts were still underway to ascertain the exact number of casualties and survivors.

Local sources said community volunteers immediately joined security agencies in the rescue operation, while traditional leaders appealed for calm and urged residents to support emergency responders.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to release a comprehensive casualty figure, as rescue teams continued combing the water in search of missing passengers.

Boat accidents remain a recurring challenge in many riverine communities across northern Nigeria, especially during the rainy season when waterways become swollen and more dangerous.

Safety experts have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of life jacket usage, regular inspection of boats, and adherence to passenger limits to reduce such tragedies.

Meanwhile, the Jigawa State Police Command assured residents that every available resource was being deployed to ensure the rescue operation continue until all victims were accounted for.

Authorities have appealed to members of the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and allow rescue officials to complete their work as investigations into the cause of the accident continue. (Daily Trust)

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