FIVE individuals lost their lives in a canoe accident in the Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
The tragedy occurred around noon today when a canoe carrying twenty passengers capsized while navigating the Gamoda River near Nahuce village.
In a statement, the Jigawa State Police Command reported that after receiving the distress call, a team of officers, local divers, and Good Samaritans quickly arrived at the scene to assist in the rescue operations.
Unfortunately, “Regrettably, five of the passengers were found dead,” said Lawan Shiisu Adam, spokesperson for the Jigawa State Police.
The deceased have been identified as Abdurra’uf Mohd, 15; Suleman Ali, 20; Shafiu Mohd, 25; Ado Nafance, 75; and Alasan Mohd, 16, all from Taura LGA. Efforts are still underway to rescue the remaining passengers.
Additionally, the Commissioner of Police for Jigawa State, Amad Abdullahi, expressed his heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the immediate families of the deceased and pray for the souls of the departed to find eternal peace,” he stated.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with water transportation, especially in rural areas where such methods of river crossing are commonplace.
The police have assured the public that they will collaborate closely with local authorities to enhance safety measures in the region and prevent similar incidents in the future.