The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed the rescue of five people and recovery of nine bodies after a boat carrying over 40 passengers capsized on Mashayar Yandaga River in Zamfara State. The accident, which occurred on Sunday, was attributed to overloading and strong river currents.
NEMA's Head of Press, Manzo Ezekiel, revealed that local divers and fishermen quickly mobilized for the rescue mission. The agency’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, advised boat operators to prioritize safety to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing, as several passengers, including men, women, and children, remain unaccounted for. Communities along the river have been alerted to watch for bodies potentially drifting downstream.
NEMA is working alongside local authorities, the Red Cross, and other stakeholders to manage the disaster response and ensure thorough rescue efforts in Gummi Local Government Area.
