Boat Capsizes In Adamawa, Many Feared Dead

A significant number of passengers reportedly lost their lives following the capsizing of a boat in Gurin, in the suburban area of Fufore Local Government Area in Adamawa state.

The victims affected, predominantly women and children, were on their way back from farming activities and a naming ceremony when the wooden boat tragically sank on Monday, September 11, 2023.

The incident occurred just 48 hours after eight persons lost their lives in a boat accident in Rugange, located in the Yola South Local Government Area of Adamawa.

The Executive Secretary of the Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Mohammed Suleiman, has confirmed the incident, he stated that it occurred during the afternoon hours and reassured that rescue operations are actively ongoing.

Hon. Barr. Umar Bobbo Ismail, the representative for the Fufore/Gurin constituency in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, has also confirmed this tragic incident.

Mahmud, a local diver who participated in the rescue efforts, expressed his perspective, emphasizing that the incident might have been preventable if the passengers had utilized life jackets and adhered to other essential safety precautions.

Furthermore, Mahmud urged the government and pertinent authorities to prioritize the consistent maintenance of waterways and the provision of safety equipment, including life jackets, to avert future mishaps.

The resurgence of boat accidents has heightened concerns regarding the safety of water transportation, especially during the rainy season.