A tragic boat accident occurred on Sunday evening on the Kwalgai River in Auyo Local Government Area of Jigawa State, resulting in the death of one person, while 18 others were rescued. One person remains missing.
According to a press release from the Jigawa State Police Command, the incident occurred around 10:00 pm when approximately 20 marketers from Kwalgwai village boarded a canoe to cross the Kwalgai River towards Hadin village.
The canoe capsized reportedly due to powerful waves and overloading. Prompt response from divers, fishermen, and bystanders, supported by a team of policemen led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Auyo Division, led to the successful rescue of 18 passengers.
“Upon receiving the distress call, a team of policemen led by the DPO raced to the scene. Divers, fishermen, and good Samaritans were also swiftly notified and engaged in the rescue operation,” said DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, the Police Public Relations Officer for Jigawa State Command.
“Unfortunately, two female passengers were initially reported missing. Early on the morning of July 8, one of the missing females, identified as Habiba Ado, 18, from Kwalgwai, was found and rushed to Auyo hospital, where she was declared dead by the on-call medical doctor.
“A preliminary investigation indicated that the accident was primarily caused by powerful waves and overloading, which made it difficult for the driver to steer the canoe,” DSP Adam stated.
The police said all rescued victims have been taken to the hospital for medical attention while efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining missing passenger.
The command has urged residents and travellers to exercise caution and avoid overloading canoes, especially during adverse weather conditions, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and those affected by this tragic incident,” DSP Adam added.
The authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, as search and rescue efforts for the missing passenger remain a top priority.