At Least 10 Dead, Dozens Missing After Boat Capsizes

A Sunday morning trip to a bustling food market in northern Nigeria turned into horror when a boat carrying more than 50 passengers capsized in Sokoto State, leaving at least 10 dead and more than 40 others missing.

The vessel was en route to the popular Goronyo Market, a lifeline for many in the region, when it overturned on the River Rima around August 17. Rescue operations are still underway, with six people pulled from the water alive.

“This is indeed a great tragedy for our community,” one resident told The Sun, describing a town overcome with grief and fear.

Emergency crews from Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) rushed to the scene. Boats, divers, and local volunteers joined the frantic search.

“To date, 10 individuals have been confirmed deceased, while six have been rescued alive. Search and rescue operations are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers,” SEMA said in a statement shared Sunday.

NEMA Director General Zubaida Umar assured the public that every possible resource is being deployed. “The Agency reassures the public of its commitment to saving lives, providing timely updates, and coordinating all necessary support for the affected families,” Umar said.

Officials have linked the tragedy to overloading — a recurring issue in the region where river transport is often the only option for rural communities.

Hon. Aminu Liman Boding, Special Adviser to SEMA, urged residents to take warnings seriously: “We urge community members to adhere strictly to safety regulations and avoid overloading boats.”

The latest accident is part of a disturbing trend. Just weeks ago, another boat capsized in Niger State, killing 13 passengers and leaving many others unaccounted for. Boat disasters in Nigeria are common due to poor maintenance, overloading, and lack of life jackets.

According to the International Maritime Organization, hundreds die annually on Nigeria’s rivers — a statistic locals know all too well.

In Kojiyo village, near the accident site, residents gathered along the riverbanks as rescue efforts continued late into the night. Witnesses described an atmosphere of shock and despair.

“This river is our lifeline,” a local trader told reporters. “But today it has become a grave.”

The Sokoto State Government has pledged support for the victims’ families. Funerals for the recovered bodies began Monday morning, with families weeping openly as wooden coffins were carried through the streets.