At least 46 bodies have been recovered following a devastating boat accident in Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, with search and rescue operations continuing for passengers still missing.
The boat was carrying 77 passengers when it capsized while travelling from Gorau to Birjingo in Goronyo LGA, according to the Sokoto State Police Command. Seven passengers have so far been rescued alive, while 24 others remain unaccounted for.
The tragedy occurred on Thursday and has left families and residents of the affected communities mourning. Earlier reports from the scene indicated that many of those on board were women and children travelling to farms.
46 Bodies Recovered
Police spokesperson Ahmad Rufai confirmed that 46 bodies had been recovered as rescue teams continued searching the waterway.
He said the figures could change as the search operation progresses and more information becomes available.
Other reports from the scene gave varying casualty figures as local residents and rescuers continued recovering victims. Reuters reported that its correspondent saw dozens of bodies at a community mosque in Gorau, while witnesses said additional victims were still being brought out of the river.
Children Among Victims
The accident has generated particular concern because a large number of the passengers were reportedly children.
An official of the National Inland Waterways Authority said around 40 children were among the bodies recovered, while a local lawmaker said many passengers were between 10 and 15 years old.
The victims were reportedly travelling for agricultural activities, with residents explaining that women and children frequently use the waterway to reach farms during the rainy season.
Search Operation Continues
Emergency officials, security agencies and local residents have continued efforts to locate the 24 passengers still missing.
The accident has once again raised concerns about safety on Nigeria's inland waterways, where boat tragedies are frequently linked to overcrowding, poor maintenance and inadequate enforcement of safety regulations.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the recovery operation continues and the circumstances surrounding the accident become clearer.
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