According to a statement from the Jigawa State Police Command on Tuesday, seven children were rescued, while two remain missing.
At least six children lost their lives in a boat mishap in Taura LGA of Jigawa State after a canoe carrying 15 passengers capsized on Sunday night. The accident occurred around 8:15 pm as the children were returning from a farm in Jejin Gunka to their village, Zangwan Maje.
According to a statement from the Jigawa State Police Command on Tuesday, seven children were rescued, while two remain missing. The survivors include Rukayya Abdullahi, 9; Ibrahim Garba, 12; Fatima Yusuf, 10; Suwaiba Yahaya, 20; Rukayya Saleh, 18; Jawahira Samaila, 10; and Sakina Sule, 11.
The deceased have been identified as Hare Abdullahi, 12; Halima Ma’azu, 12; Nasiba Yahya, 15; Saima Yusuf, 25; Amina Sule, 11; and Saiya Abdullahi, 18.
The canoe operator reportedly fled the scene and is currently at large.
Dahiru Muhammad, Commissioner of Police, offered condolences and urged the public to “prioritise safety,” warning against “night-time travel” and “overloading,” and stressing the need for life jackets.