Fatal Boat Capsizing in Sokoto: Six Confirmed Dead, Three Still Missing
In a devastating incident early Friday morning, a boat ferrying numerous passengers overturned in a waterway near Garin-Faji Village, located within Sabon-Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The tragedy, which unfolded around 5:30 a.m., resulted in six confirmed fatalities and left three individuals unaccounted for. The passengers were reportedly fleeing a suspected bandit attack when the accident occurred.
Recurring Waterway Disasters in Sokoto
This calamity follows closely on the heels of a similar mishap just six days prior, where four people lost their lives in Goronyo Local Government Area under comparable circumstances. Such repeated incidents highlight the persistent dangers faced by residents relying on river transport in the region.
Rescue Efforts and Ongoing Search Operations
Eyewitnesses recounted that the boat capsized midway through its journey, plunging passengers into the river’s waters. Prompt response from local divers and emergency personnel led to the rescue of 19 survivors. However, the fate of three passengers remains unknown, prompting fears that the death toll may increase.
The Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) officially confirmed the casualties in a statement released on Sunday. They emphasized that search and rescue missions are still underway, with teams tirelessly scouring the river to find the missing individuals.
Collaborative Assessment and Community Support
A multidisciplinary assessment team, including representatives from SEMA, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Sokoto Operations Office, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and the Red Cross, visited the affected village to evaluate the situation and extend assistance to the victims’ families.
Leading the delegation, Alhaji Aliyu Shehu Kafin-Dangi, Head of NEMA Sokoto Operations, engaged with local leaders, traditional rulers, and relatives of those involved to gather firsthand accounts and provide reassurance. He expressed heartfelt condolences and pledged continued efforts to locate the missing persons while learning from the tragedy to enhance waterway safety protocols.
Calls for Stricter Safety Compliance
Authorities have underscored the critical importance of adherence to safety regulations by boat operators to prevent future disasters. Honorable Aminu Liman Bodinga, Special Adviser to Sokoto SEMA, highlighted the necessity for intensified monitoring and enforcement of safety standards on all waterways.
Community members have played a vital role in the rescue operations, contributing boats, ropes, and manpower to support emergency responders. SEMA has announced plans to publish a detailed joint report outlining findings and recommendations aimed at bolstering water transport safety and averting similar incidents.
Continuing Search and Hope for Closure
Search and rescue teams, alongside volunteers, remain committed to combing the river in hopes of finding the three missing passengers. Their efforts seek to bring solace to grieving families and prevent further loss of life in Sokoto’s waterways.
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