The death toll from the Yobe boat mishap rises to 29, while about 10 bodies remain missing as rescue and recovery operations continue in the affected area of the state.
The Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mohammed Goje, confirms the update during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Monday, Mediaplusng.com reports. He says emergency teams remain on ground and are working tirelessly to recover the remaining bodies.
Goje explains that search efforts are ongoing, with responders maintaining hope that all missing victims will be accounted for. He adds that the operation involves local divers and security personnel, as authorities intensify efforts to bring closure to affected families.
Preliminary findings suggest that overloading is a major suspected cause of the tragic incident, Mediaplusng.com understands. The SEMA boss notes that investigations are still underway to determine the full circumstances surrounding the boat accident.
According to emergency officials, the boat was conveying passengers across a waterway when it capsized, leading to multiple casualties. The exact number of passengers onboard at the time of the incident remains unclear, complicating rescue and identification efforts.
The Yobe State Government expresses deep sympathy to the families of the victims and assures them of continued support. Authorities say relief materials and psychosocial assistance will be provided to affected communities as part of the response.
Emergency agencies also use the opportunity to warn residents against unsafe travel practices on waterways, especially the use of overloaded or poorly maintained boats. They stress the importance of adhering strictly to safety guidelines to prevent similar tragedies.
Officials further call on boat operators to ensure compliance with approved passenger limits and to provide safety equipment such as life jackets for all travelers. Community leaders are also urged to help educate residents on water transport safety.
As recovery operations continue, the state government reiterates its commitment to improving water transport safety and strengthening emergency response systems across riverine communities.
The tragic incident once again highlights the dangers of unsafe water transportation and the urgent need for stronger regulation, public awareness, and enforcement to save lives in Yobe State and beyond.
