One person has been confirmed dead while 18 others rescued alive and another one person is still missing after a tragic boat accident which occurred on the Kwalgai River in Auyo Local Government Area of Jigawa State on Sunday evening.
A press release issued by the Jigawa State Police Command, the incident happened at around 10:00 pm when a group of about 20 marketers from Kwalgwai village, boarded a canoe to travel across the Kwalgai River toward Hadin village.
Channels television reports that the canoe reportedly capsized due to powerful waves and overloading. Swift action from divers, fishermen, and good Samaritans, along with a team of policemen led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Auyo Division, resulted in the rescue of 18 passengers alive.
“Upon receiving the distress call, a team of policemen led by the DPO raced to the scene. Divers, fishermen, and good Samaritans were also swiftly notified and engaged in the rescue operation,” said DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, the Police Public Relations Officer for Jigawa State Command.
“Unfortunately, two female passengers were initially reported missing. Early on the morning of July 8, one of the missing females, identified as Habiba Ado, 18, from Kwalgwai, was found and rushed to Auyo hospital, where she was declared dead by the on-call medical doctor.
“A preliminary investigation indicated that the accident was primarily caused by powerful waves and overloading, which made it difficult for the driver to steer the canoe,” DSP Adam stated.
The police said all rescued victims have been taken to the hospital for medical attention while efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining missing passenger.
The command has urged residents and travellers to exercise caution and avoid overloading canoes, especially during adverse weather conditions, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and those affected by this tragic incident,” DSP Adam added.
The authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, as search and rescue efforts for the missing passenger remain a top priority.