One person has been reported dead and 18 rescued when a boat capsized on Kwalgai River in Auyo Local Government Area of Jigawa State on Sunday evening.
According to the police, one of the 20 people in the boat is still missing.
The incident occurred at about 10:00 pm when the victims, mostly traders, were returning to Hadin village from Kwalgwai market.
The canoe reportedly capsized due to powerful waves and overloading, and the swift response of divers, fishermen, and good Samaritans, resulted in the rescue of 18 passengers alive.
“Upon receiving the distress call, a team of policemen led by the DPO Auyo division raced to the scene. Divers, fishermen, and good Samaritans were also swiftly notified and engaged in the rescue operation,” said DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, the Police Public Relations Officer, Jigawa State Command.
“Unfortunately, two female passengers were initially reported missing. Early on the morning of July 8, one of the missing females, identified as Habiba Ado, 18, from Kwalgwai, was found and rushed to Auyo hospital, where she was declared dead by the on-call medical doctor.
“A preliminary investigation indicated that the accident was primarily caused by powerful waves and overloading, which made it difficult for the driver to steer the canoe,” DSP Adam stated.
The police said all rescued victims have been taken to hospital for medical attention while efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining missing passenger.
The command urged residents and travellers to exercise caution and avoid overloading canoes, especially during adverse weather conditions, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and those affected by this tragic incident,” DSP Adam added.
