By Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic boat accident in Nguru Local Government Area that claimed the lives of at least 25 people, describing the incident as a devastating blow to families and communities across the state.
In an emotion-laden condolence message issued through his Director-General of Press and Media Affairs, Governor Buni said he received the news of the mishap with “a heavy heart,” noting that the scale of the tragedy has plunged Yobe into mourning.
> “It is with profound sadness that I received the shocking and devastating news of the boat mishap in Nguru Local Government Area which claimed 25 innocent lives. Fourteen others are still missing, while 13 were rescued alive,” the governor said.
Governor Buni prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased and asked God to grant comfort and strength to their grieving families. He also offered prayers for more survivors to be found as rescue efforts intensify.
> “I sincerely pray that more survivors will be rescued alive and reunited with their families,” he added.
In a swift response, the governor directed the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the State Fire Service, and the Nguru Local Government Council to immediately mobilise additional resources to scale up search-and-rescue operations for those still missing.
He further ordered that all rescued victims receive urgent and adequate medical attention, assuring that the state government would bear the responsibility of their care.
The tragic incident occurred when a canoe conveying 52 passengers capsized while traveling from Adiyani in neighbouring Jigawa State to Garbi in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State. Rescue teams confirmed that 25 passengers lost their lives, while efforts continue to locate the remaining missing persons.
Governor Buni used the occasion to issue a strong caution to boat operators and commuters, warning against the dangers of overloading canoes and other means of transportation.
“This heartbreaking incident is a painful reminder of the need to strictly observe safety measures. Overloading of canoes and vehicles must be avoided to prevent needless loss of lives,” he warned.
The governor also directed SEMA to provide immediate relief materials and support to the families of the victims as they grapple with the tragedy, stressing that the state stands firmly with them in this moment of grief.
As rescue teams battle against time and challenging conditions, Yobe State remains united in prayers and hope—hoping that the river will yet release more survivors back to their waiting families.
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