Tragedy struck in Shani Local Government Area of Borno State on Monday when a boat carrying farmers capsized, leaving three dead and several others injured.
The ill-fated canoe was transporting yams and about 20 farmers across River Kubo in Kubo Ward when it tipped over due to overloading. According to the North-East office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), 17 of the farmers were rescued, while three others lost their lives.
Confirming the incident, Shani LGA Chairman, Abdu Labaki, said the accident happened in the early hours of Monday as farmers attempted to reach their riverside farmlands. “The boat capsized due to overloading. Seventeen people were rescued, but three died and their bodies were recovered,” he stated.
A local resident, Audu Abu, also confirmed the tragedy, adding that search efforts were still ongoing to determine if more people were missing. He disclosed that the canoe had more than 27 passengers onboard before the accident occurred.
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“The tragic canoe crash occurred at River Kubo in Shani Local Government Area, specifically in Kubo Ward. The canoe, which was carrying over 27 people, met with an unfortunate accident, leaving three people dead. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those affected, and may Allah grant protection and safety to all,” Abu said.
The incident comes amid heavy flooding across Borno State, which has already destroyed homes and farmlands, further compounding the plight of rural communities.
