Zamfara: 26 Still Missing As NEMA Confirms 9 Dead In Boat Mishap

The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, on Tuesday, stated that the boat accident at Mashayar Yandaga, the old market site in Gummi Township, Zamfara State, left at least 9 dead, with 5 survivors rescued.

The boat, which capsized on September 14, 2024, was carrying over 40 passengers, mainly farmers and crew members when it overturned due to overloading and strong river currents.

In a statement on Tuesday, the agency via its spokesperson, Manzo Ezekiel, stated that divers and fishermen were mobilised to rescue survivors.

It noted that while 5 passengers were pulled from the water alive, 9 bodies have been recovered, as many passengers, including men, women, and children, remain unaccounted for as search efforts continue.

The statement indicated that officials from NEMA, Zamfara State Emergency Management Agency (ZEMA), Gummi Local Government, community leaders, the Red Cross, and other stakeholders are actively involved in the ongoing rescue and recovery operations.

Adding that communities downstream have been alerted to watch for any bodies that may float their way.

“Following the accident, rescuers, consisting mostly of local divers and fishermen were mobilised and managed to rescue five alive. Sadly, 9 bodies of the passengers have been recovered so far, while search and rescue operations is continuing.

“However, other passengers comprising of men, women, and children remain unaccounted for.
“Communities situated downstream along the river channel have been alerted to help in looking out for bodies that may be floating to their location.

“The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) through its Sokoto Operation Office in conjunction with Zamfara State Emergency Agency, Gummi Local Government authorities, community leaders, the Red Cross, and other stakeholders are involved in the operation and carried out assessment of the disaster,” the statement read.

The Director-General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, expressed her condolences to the people of Zamfara State and urged boat operators to strictly follow safety regulations to prevent future tragedies.