LagosExplorer reports: Grief and panic have gripped Sokoto State after a boat carrying more than 50 people capsized on Sunday while heading to Goronyo Market. According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), over 40 passengers are still missing, with only 10 rescued alive.
The head of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, confirmed the incident in a statement shared on the social media platform X, explaining that the ill-fated boat was overloaded with traders and goods before it overturned in the river. Rescue operations are still ongoing, as divers and emergency workers comb the waters in search of survivors.
This heartbreaking event adds to Nigeria’s growing list of deadly boat accidents, which have become far too common in recent years. Just last month, a similar disaster occurred in Niger State, claiming dozens of lives. Safety experts blame these recurring tragedies on poor enforcement of waterway regulations, overloading, and lack of life jackets.
Residents of Goronyo and surrounding communities have been thrown into mourning, with many families anxiously waiting for news about their loved ones.