At least six people have been confirmed dead and two others remain missing following a canoe accident in Zangwan Maje village, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
The tragic incident occurred on Sunday, July 27, when a canoe transporting 15 children from Jejin Gunka farm capsized due to strong winds, flooding, and overloading. Seven passengers were rescued alive, while six bodies had been recovered by Tuesday, according to a statement from the Jigawa State Police Command.
Police identified the deceased as Hare Abdullahi (12), Halima Ma’azu (12), Nasiba Yahya (15), Saima Yusuf (25), Amina Sule (11), and Saiya Abdullahi (18). The surviving children include Rukayya Abdullahi (9), Ibrahim Garba (12), Fatima Yusuf (10), Suwaiba Yahaya (20), Rukayya Saleh (18), Jawahira Samaila (10), and Sakina Sule (11).
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Shi’isu Lawan Adam, said the canoe operator fled the scene after the accident. “Efforts are underway to locate, apprehend, and ultimately prosecute him in court as a deterrent to others,” he stated.
Commissioner of Police, CP Dahiru Muhammad, extended condolences to the families and community, urging caution in riverine transport. “Avoid night journeys, do not overload canoes, and always use life jackets,” he advised.
Local divers, police officers, and volunteers continue the search for the remaining two children. A community elder, Mallam Garba Maje, described the tragedy as devastating. “These were our sons and daughters. We never imagined such loss,” he said.
