By: Umar Akilu Majeri, Dutse.
At least six people remain missing, while one person has been confirmed dead after an overloaded canoe capsized in Malamawa Yandutse, a community near Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
The incident occurred at about 2:40 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2026, when a canoe carrying about 25 passengers from different communities overturned while attempting to cross a river.
One of the survivors, Malam Dahiru of Malamawa Yandutse, said most of the passengers were women and children, adding that many of the victims were females aged between seven and 24 years.
According to a reliable source, 16 passengers were rescued alive, while several others were swept away by the current. Rescue teams later recovered the body of Aisha Nura, an eight-year-old girl from Malamawa Yandutse.
As of the time of filing this report, six people were still missing, while search and rescue operations continued.
Preliminary findings indicate that overloading may have been a major factor behind the accident. Authorities have since launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Jigawa State Command, extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and expressed hope for the safe rescue of those still missing.
The Command also commended community members and emergency responders for their swift response and continued efforts in the search operation.
The NSCDC urged operators and users of water transport to adhere strictly to safety regulations by avoiding overloading, ensuring that all passengers wear life jackets, and complying with established water transport safety guidelines.
It also called on community leaders to intensify public awareness campaigns on water safety, particularly during the rainy season when rising water levels and stronger currents increase the risk of accidents.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to safeguard lives and property while promoting safer water transportation across Jigawa State.
Note: There is an inconsistency in the casualty figures in the original copy. It states that one person was confirmed dead, but later mentions that the body of Aisha Nura was recovered “along with two other victims.” If three bodies were recovered, the death toll would be at least three. This should be verified before publication.
