The death toll from Saturday’s boat accident in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State has increased to 29, following the recovery of four additional bodies from the river.
The Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Mohammad Goje, confirmed the latest figures in a statement issued on Monday in Damaturu.
According to him, search and rescue operations are ongoing, as between eight and 10 passengers are still unaccounted for.
He added that 13 victims who sustained injuries in the incident were treated at a nearby hospital and later discharged.
“Four more bodies were recovered from the river, bringing the total number of fatalities to 29,” Goje said.
“Our rescue teams are still on the ground, and efforts will continue until all missing persons are accounted for.”
Preliminary findings, he noted, point to overloading and possible structural defects in the boat as key factors behind the accident.
Reacting to the tragedy, Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, directed YOSEMA to work closely with relevant federal agencies to strengthen safety measures on inland waterways.
“The governor has instructed us to liaise with federal authorities to improve the regulation of water transportation in the area,” Goje stated.
“With proper collaboration, we can enhance monitoring and enforce the compulsory use of life jackets for passengers.”
He stressed that institutionalising safety practices would significantly reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future.
The ill-fated boat reportedly departed from Adiyani community in neighbouring Jigawa State before capsizing along the Yobe River at Garbi town around 7:48 p.m. on Saturday. More than 50 passengers, mostly farmers and traders, were believed to be onboard at the time of the accident.
Garbi town is located over 230 kilometres from Damaturu, the Yobe State capital.
