A major tragedy struck Yobe State on Saturday evening as a canoe carrying dozens of passengers capsized, leading to significant loss of life. The incident has left communities in mourning and emergency teams in a frantic search for survivors.
Details of the Nguru Waterway Disaster
The accident occurred at approximately 7:48 pm on Saturday, 3 January 2026. The canoe was traveling from Adiyani town in the Guri Local Government Area of neighboring Jigawa State to Garbi town in the Nguru LGA of Yobe State. Eyewitnesses reported that the vessel overturned mid-journey with 52 people on board.
Passengers were primarily returning from daily activities including fishing, farming, and local business when the capsizing happened. The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YSEMA) was quickly alerted to the distress call.
Rescue Efforts and Official Response
Mohammed Goje, the Executive Secretary of YSEMA, confirmed the agency's immediate mobilization. "Our search and rescue teams from Bade and Nguru Local Government Areas have been deployed and are working in collaboration with security agencies and local community volunteers," Goje stated.
He emphasized the agency's commitment: "We are committed to ensuring that all missing persons are accounted for, while recovered victims are given proper medical and humanitarian support."
As of Sunday morning, the grim statistics were clear:
- 13 passengers rescued and receiving medical attention.
- 25 bodies recovered by search teams.
- 14 passengers still missing, prompting intensified search operations.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigations
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene with local community members joining professional responders in desperate rescue attempts. The Yobe State government has pledged support for victims' families and promised adequate care for survivors.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the capsizing, with potential overloading and unpredictable dry season river currents considered key factors. Local officials have urged residents to exercise extreme caution when navigating waterways, especially during this period.
This tragedy highlights the persistent dangers of water transport in some regions of Nigeria, where safety regulations and infrastructure often lag behind community needs. The search for the 14 missing individuals continues as the state grapples with one of its worst recent water accidents.
