A tragic boat capsize incident on the Yobe River in Garbi town, Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State, has resulted in the deaths of no fewer than 25 persons, with 14 others still reported missing. The unfortunate event occurred around 7:48 pm on January 3. Dr. Mohammad Goje, Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), confirmed the details in a statement issued from Damaturu on Sunday, highlighting the severity of the disaster that has gripped the local community.

The victims, primarily composed of farmers and traders, had boarded the ill-fated boat in Adiyani town, located in neighboring Jigawa State. According to Dr. Goje, they were returning from Adiyani, where they had been engaged in various local business activities, including fishing and farming, when the canoe suddenly overturned mid-journey. This sudden capsizing plunged the passengers into the river, leading to the high number of fatalities and disappearances.

Amidst the grim situation, there is a glimmer of hope as 13 passengers were successfully rescued from the disaster. These survivors are currently receiving necessary medical treatment in a local hospital. Following the incident, extensive search and rescue operations were immediately launched. Security agencies, emergency responders, and dedicated local community volunteers are working tirelessly to locate the missing passengers and recover any remaining bodies from the river. YOSEMA has further bolstered these efforts by dispatching search and rescue teams from Bade and Nguru to support the teams already on the ground.

In response to the tragedy, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State extended his profound condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. Furthermore, the Governor issued directives to YOSEMA, instructing the agency to provide comprehensive medical and logistical support to all the rescued victims. He also underscored the critical importance of expediting referral services without any delay, emphasizing that every effort must be made to save lives and mitigate the impact of this devastating incident on the affected individuals and families. The Vanguard News reported on the incident.