Niger State Boat Mishap: 8 Lives Lost, 12 Still Missing in Tragic Incident
In a devastating incident on Monday, a boat carrying around 100 passengers capsized in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving eight confirmed dead and 12 individuals still missing.
The vessel, overloaded with passengers and goods, was en route from Durga Mashaya in Borgu LG to Wara market in Kebbi State when it succumbed to strong waves.
Search and Rescue Operations Yield Mixed Outcomes
The Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, Abdullahi Baba Arah, reported that the swift response of local divers in search and rescue efforts managed to save several lives, reducing the number of casualties.
Unfortunately, eight lives were lost in the mishap, and as of the latest update, 12 individuals remain unaccounted for.
Overloading and Strong Waves Identified as Culprits
The boat, designed to accommodate 100 passengers, faced overloading as it embarked on its journey, contributing to the tragic incident.
Abdullahi Baba Arah emphasized that the mishap was exacerbated by both overloading and the impact of strong waves.
Names of Survivors Released, Prayers for the Missing
Among those rescued alive are individuals such as Malama Adama Babangida, Bello Usman, Bawa Alh. Ayuba, Danyarbawa Danmanyan, Umaru Alhaji Mainasara, Rufayatu, Ladidi, Abdullahi Abubakar, Isah Suleiman, Rakiya Abdullahi, and Sakina Ibrahim.
The list of survivors provides a glimpse of hope amid the ongoing search for the missing individuals.
Community Mourns as the Tragedy Unfolds
The boat mishap has left the community in mourning as the recovered bodies and the missing individuals’ fate remain uncertain.
The tragedy underscores the challenges associated with water transportation, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures and awareness in such regions.
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