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Tragic boat incident off the Nigerian coast results in at least sixty fatalities, numerous survivors recovered

Boat capsizing in Niger State, north-central Nigeria: Official reports suggest that the accident occurred on Wednesday, resulting in at least 60 fatalities and the rescue of numerous passengers. The boat departed from Tungan...

catastrophic boat incident off the coast of Nigeria results in the loss of at least 60 lives, with...
catastrophic boat incident off the coast of Nigeria results in the loss of at least 60 lives, with many more being successfully saved

Tragic boat incident off the Nigerian coast results in at least sixty fatalities, numerous survivors recovered

In a tragic incident that occurred around 11 a.m. (1000 GMT) on an unspecified day, a boat carrying over 100 passengers capsized in Niger State, Nigeria. The boat struck a submerged tree stump near Gausawa community in Borgu Local Government Area, according to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency.

The boat was en route to Dugga for a condolence visit when the accident occurred. As a result, dozens more passengers were rescued, but at least 60 people have died in the incident.

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency is currently searching for the victims and has confirmed 29 deaths, 50 rescues, and two missing persons. The agency also reported that the boat was recovered and removed from the river.

Women and children made up the majority of the deceased, and ten people were found in serious condition. The rising casualty figure was confirmed by Abdullahi Baba Ara, the chair of Borgu Local Government Area, in a recent interview with Reuters.

Boat accidents are unfortunately frequent in Nigeria, especially during the rainy season, due to lax safety enforcement, overcrowding, and the use of poorly maintained vessels. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for improved safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Sa'adu Inuwa Muhammad, the district head of Shagumi, was at the scene of the boat incident, offering support and assistance to the rescue efforts. Four victims of the boat incident were buried on Tuesday in accordance with Islamic rites.

The names of the deceased have not been publicly released at this time, and efforts are ongoing to locate and identify the missing persons. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy.

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