24 feared dead as Canoe capsizes in Guri

By Umar Akilu Majeri, Dutse

Tragedy struck the Adiyani community in Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State on Sunday when a canoe ferrying passengers across the Adiyani River capsized, leaving at least 24 people feared dead.

The devastating incident, which has thrown the community into mourning, was confirmed by the Jigawa State Police Command.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Adam Lawan Shisu, disclosed that the canoe was reportedly overloaded at the time of the mishap.

While details of the accident are still emerging, Shisu confirmed that local divers and Good Samaritans managed to rescue 10 passengers alive.

However, 14 others remain missing and are presumed drowned as search and rescue operations continue in the river.

Reacting to the disaster, the Chairman of Guri Local Government Council, Alhaji Umar Abubakar Dan Barde, expressed deep shock and sorrow over the loss of lives.

He urgently called on the Jigawa State Government to intervene and provide necessary aid to the survivors and the bereaved families.

Dan Barde assured the community that the local government council would spare no effort in supporting the families of the victims.

He further directed that the rescued survivors receive immediate medical attention to ensure their recovery.

The incident highlights the recurring challenge of boat mishaps in riverine communities, often attributed to overloading and the lack of safety measures for water transportation.