Death toll rises to 29 in Yobe boat mishap, about 10 bodies still missing – SEMA
The death toll from the tragic boat accident in Yobe State has climbed to 29, with rescue teams still searching for about eight to ten missing bodies, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has confirmed.
SEMA Executive Secretary, Mohammed Goje, disclosed the update on Monday during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, noting that search and recovery efforts are ongoing.
Goje said 29 bodies have so far been recovered and buried according to their religious rites, while 13 passengers were rescued alive. He added that those who sustained injuries and were admitted to hospital have since been discharged.
“Our latest update is that 29 bodies have been recovered and buried. Thirteen people were rescued, and those taken to the hospital have all been discharged,” he said. “The major challenge now is locating the remaining eight to ten bodies believed to be part of the mishap.”
READ ALSO: Yobe gov’t honours SEMA rescue team for efforts during Maiduguri flood disaster (pictures)
The accident occurred at about 7:48 p.m. on Saturday when a canoe carrying 52 passengers capsized while travelling from Adiyani in Jigawa State to Garbi community in Yobe State. Most of the victims were reportedly fishermen returning to their base.
Preliminary findings point to overloading as the likely cause of the incident. Goje explained that the boat was believed to be the last to depart the community, leading to excessive passenger numbers.
“Initial reports indicate that overloading caused the accident,” he said. “Although there have been no major incidents on that route in a long time, factors such as overuse, lack of precautionary measures, and overloading may have contributed. Sadly, there was not a single life jacket on the boat.”
Goje further revealed that Governor Mai Mala Buni has directed SEMA officials to remain on the ground until search operations are concluded. The governor has also ordered collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and engagement with the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy as well as the Minister of Police Affairs to strengthen training for boat operators.
READ ALSO: 25 killed, 13 rescued as passenger boat capsizes
According to the SEMA boss, enforcing the compulsory use of life jackets, ensuring compliance by commercial boat operators, and improving waterfront policing would significantly reduce the frequency of boat accidents in the state.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
