4 dead, 5 missing in Jigawa boat mishap

Four people have been confirmed dead following a boat mishap in Zangon Maje, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Jigawa State Command, said the incident occurred on Sunday, July 27, around 5pm. Badruddeen Tijjani Mahmud, the command’s spokesperson, said the ill-fated boat was carrying 17 passengers, […]

Four people have been confirmed dead following a boat mishap in Zangon Maje, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Jigawa State Command, said the incident occurred on Sunday, July 27, around 5pm.

Badruddeen Tijjani Mahmud, the command’s spokesperson, said the ill-fated boat was carrying 17 passengers, mostly young girls aged between 10 and 13, from Digawa Village in Jahun LGA to Zangon Maje town in Taura LGA when it capsized midway.

He said preliminary reports indicate that out of the 17 passengers, seven were rescued alive, four bodies have been recovered, while five passengers remain missing as at the time of this report.

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“Of the 17 passengers, 16 were female, underscoring the devastating impact on young lives and families. Rescue efforts, led by the NSCDC in collaboration with local divers and community volunteers, began immediately and are still ongoing in a bid to locate the missing individuals,” Badruddeen said.

He added that the cause of the mishap has yet to be determined, but investigations are ongoing.

The Command assured the public that measures are being taken to prevent future occurrences and enhance safety on the state’s waterways.

Commandant Bala Bawa Bodinga, head of the NSCDC Jigawa State Command, condoled with the affected families and communities of Digawa and Zangon Maje.

He also commended the swift response of personnel and volunteers involved in the rescue operation.