Search and rescue operations are ongoing following the reported capsizing of a boat carrying more than 30 passengers at Malamawar Yan Dutse community in Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
The Director of Planning, Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), confirmed the incident to journalists in Dutse.
According to him, the incident occurred while the passengers, mostly female farmers and labourers, were travelling by boat.
He said the circumstances surrounding the mishap had yet to be officially established, adding that rescue teams and local residents were combing the area in search of survivors.
He stated that all hands were on deck to determine the exact number of persons rescued, missing or feared dead.
“Authorities are yet to confirm the number of casualties, as emergency responders continued operations at the scene,”
Meanwhile, the Chairman, Ringim Local Government Emergency Management Committee, Malam Habibu Dauda urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information, pending an official statement from the relevant authorities.
Boat accidents remain a recurring challenge in several riverine communities, particularly during the rainy season when rising water levels and strong currents increase navigation risks.
Usman Mohammed Zaria
