Tragic Boat Accident in Jigawa Leaves Several Young Girls Dead, Search Still Ongoing

A sorrowful tragedy unfolded in Zangon Maje community, located in Taura Local Government Area (LGA) of Jigawa State, where a boat transporting 17 individuals—majorly young girls—overturned in the middle of a river, leading to multiple casualties and an ongoing search and rescue effort.

According to a statement released on Tuesday by the spokesperson of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACSC) Badruddeen Tijjani Mahmud, the heartbreaking incident took place on Sunday.

Reports confirmed that the ill-fated boat was conveying passengers from Digawa Village in Jahun LGA to Zangon Maje in Taura LGA when it capsized mid-river. Out of the 17 onboard, 16 were young girls between the ages of 10 and 13. The reason for their journey is yet to be officially stated, though they were believed to be returning from an errand or visitation.

Rescue operations commenced immediately following the disaster. Seven of the girls were successfully pulled out of the river alive. However, four lifeless bodies were later recovered from the waters, and search operations are ongoing to locate the remaining five missing passengers.

Authorities are yet to identify the precise cause of the incident. Investigations are currently in progress to determine the factors that led to the accident.

The Jigawa State NSCDC Commandant, Bala Bawa Bodinga, conveyed his condolences and sorrow regarding the tragic loss of lives.

“It’s heartbreaking to lose such promising young lives,” said Commandant Bodinga. “Our deepest sympathies go to the families of those who have passed. We will not rest until the missing individuals are found. Additionally, we are reviewing safety measures across our inland waterways to prevent future incidents of this nature.”

The commandant also acknowledged the swift and courageous response from local volunteers and emergency responders, whose efforts were crucial in rescuing survivors and assisting with recovery operations.