Boat Capsizes in Yobe: At Least 29 Killed, Scores Missing

At least 29 killed, scores missing after capsizing in Kaswaji,Yobe state, northern Nigeria.

The death toll from a boat accident on the Yobe River rose to 29 on Monday after four more bodies were recovered.

Foorage shows local volunteers searching the waters for the missing as locals gathered to mourn the dead.

The wooden vessel capsized at about 19:48 GMT on Saturday while travelling between Jigawa State and Yobe State.

“The canoe had departed Adiya but never arrived in Garbi. The prolonged delay raised concerns, leading us to inquire if it had actually left,” explained the father of one of the victims.

“Once it was confirmed that the vessel had departed, we knew something was wrong. Rescue efforts were organised immediately, but by then, it was already too late,” he added.

Officials said the boat was carrying 52 passengers when it overturned midway through the journey. Yobe State Emergency Management Agency said the passengers were mainly farmers, fishermen and traders returning from markets.

Thirteen people survived and were treated at a local hospital before being discharged. Police and emergency officials said overloading and possible structural defects were likely factors.

Boat accidents are not uncommon on Nigeria’s inland waterways, often linked to overloading and a lack of safety equipment.