Jigawa Boat Tragedy: Death Toll Rises to Six, 34 Still Missing

The death toll from the boat accident in Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State has increased to six, while 34 passengers are still missing, according to the Jigawa State Police Command.

The tragic incident occurred on Sunday at about 4:30 p.m. when a boat carrying 40 farmers and labourers capsized while crossing a river at Malamawar Yan Dutse community.

Police spokesperson SP Shi'isu Adam confirmed on Monday that rescue teams, comprising police officers, the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and local divers, are continuing an intensive search for the missing victims.

Local diver Jibril Sani said the rescue operation began immediately after the accident but was suspended overnight before resuming on Monday morning. Another diver, Yakubu Danfulani, said all available resources were being deployed to recover those still missing.

Residents described the community as being in deep mourning. Musbahu Bashir said many villagers spent the night awake, hoping for news of their loved ones.

Community members have appealed to both the Jigawa State and Federal Governments to provide life jackets, deploy safer ferries, and construct bridges and roads to reduce dependence on unsafe river crossings.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm as rescue efforts continue until every passenger aboard the boat is accounted for. The incident has also sparked fear among riverine communities, with many residents now hesitant to travel by water due to safety concerns.

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