A tragic boat accident on the Guni-Zumba waterway in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State has left 13 people dead and 26 others rescued. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, when a boat carrying 39 passengers capsized while traveling from Guni village to Zumba.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the accident, stating that rescue efforts began immediately after the mishap. According to NSEMA’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Malik Baba Suleiman, all 13 deceased victims have been recovered and buried in accordance with Islamic rites. The casualties include eight women, three men, and two children.
Preliminary investigations suggest that overloading and water turbulence contributed to the disaster. Eyewitnesses reported that the boat was filled with goods and passengers beyond its capacity, leading to its capsizing around 11:45 a.m. Efforts are ongoing to ascertain the exact cause of the incident.
The Niger State Government has issued a strong warning to boat operators and passengers to adhere to waterway safety regulations, particularly during the rainy season when water levels are unpredictable. NSEMA emphasized the need for strict compliance with loading limits to prevent further tragedies on the state’s rivers and waterways.
This latest boat mishap highlights the persistent dangers faced by riverine communities in Niger State, sparking renewed calls for government intervention. Stakeholders are urging authorities to implement stricter water transport safety measures, including providing life jackets, monitoring boat capacity, and enforcing regulatory standards to safeguard lives.
As the community mourns, safety agencies continue to stress the importance of vigilance and responsibility in water transport activities.
