A major tragedy struck the border communities of Yobe and Jigawa states on Saturday evening, as a passenger boat capsized on the Kumadugu/Yobe River, leaving at least 25 people feared dead and 14 others still missing.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The disaster occurred at approximately 7:48 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2026. The overloaded boat was carrying about 52 passengers on a journey from Adayini town in Guri Local Council of Jigawa State to the Garbi community in Nguru Local Council of Yobe State.
According to the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mohammed Goje, the primary causes of the capsizing were overloading and poor visibility on the river. The victims were predominantly fishermen, farmers, and local traders returning from their daily activities in the Adiyani border community.
Massive Search and Rescue Operation Launched
Upon receiving the distress call, a large-scale search and rescue mission was immediately initiated. Goje, speaking from Damaturu, confirmed that the operation involves multiple agencies.
13 passengers from the initial list of 27 missing have been successfully rescued. This was achieved through the combined efforts of SEMA teams from Bade and Nguru, local security agencies, emergency responders, and more than a dozen local fishermen who volunteered their expertise.
The rescue efforts are now intensely focused on finding the remaining 14 missing passengers and recovering the bodies of the 25 victims believed to be trapped in the river. The river flows onward into Lake Chad in neighbouring Borno State.
Government Response and Condolences
Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, described the incident as profoundly painful and distressing. He has extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the affected communities in both Nguru and Guri councils.
Governor Buni has issued directives for immediate medical and logistical support to be provided to all survivors currently receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Nguru and other nearby health facilities. He stressed the urgent need for expedited referral services to save lives.
The state government has assured the public of its continued support for the families of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to seeing the thorough rescue operations through to the end.
