Boat mishap kills 4, 19 rescued in Sokoto

By Peters Monday, Abuja

Tragedy struck in Dundaye community, Wamakko Local Government Area of Sokoto State, as a boat accident claimed the lives of four people. Alhaji Aliyu Kafindangi, Head of Field Operation Office of the State National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), confirmed the incident on Tuesday.

According to Kafindangi, the accident occurred on Sunday evening, and a combined rescue operation involving NEMA, Nigerian Red Cross Society, Fire Services, the State Emergency Management Agency, and local divers managed to recover the bodies of the victims on Monday. Out of the 24 persons on board, 19 were successfully rescued, while one person remains missing, and search and rescue efforts are ongoing.

Kafindangi expressed gratitude to the state and local governments, as well as community members, for their continued support in the rescue operations. The incident highlights the importance of safety measures and emergency preparedness in preventing and responding to such tragedies.

The rescue efforts involved a collaborative approach, demonstrating the effectiveness of interagency cooperation in emergency situations. The search for the missing person continues, and the incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with water transportation and the need for vigilance.