A routine river crossing turned tragic on Monday as seven people, including paddler, drowned when their canoe capsized en route from Gidan Hussaini to Sabon Garin Hussaini in Sokoto State.
The heartbreaking incident occurred around 11:00 am, according to security sources who confirmed the fatalities to Zagazola Makama. All seven occupants of the ill-fated canoe were lost to the unforgiving waters.
In the wake of the disaster, security operatives swiftly cordoned off the riverside to control the scene and prevent a surge of grieving relatives and onlookers. A local rescue team was immediately mobilized and succeeded in recovering all the bodies, which were later handed over to their respective families for burial.
Though details surrounding the cause of the capsizing remain sketchy, residents say the river route is commonly used and are now calling for improved safety measures to prevent such deadly occurrences.
The Sokoto State government is yet to issue an official statement, but sources say local authorities are assessing the situation.
@Zagazola Makama
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