A passenger boat capsized along the Yobe River in Garbi town in Nigeria’s Yobe state, leaving at least 25 people dead and 14 others missing, emergency services said. AP reported that the boat overturned on Saturday night.
The Yobe emergency management agency said the boat was carrying residents who had gone to the local market as well as some who were involved in fishing or farming. The agency did not provide additional details beyond saying the vessel overturned mid-journey.
Of the 52 passengers on board, 13 were rescued and were receiving medical assistance, the agency said in a statement. Emergency teams were working to locate the missing passengers and recover bodies.
“Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with security agencies, emergency responders, and local community volunteers working tirelessly to locate the missing passengers and recover bodies,” the agency added.
The accident underscores the recurring toll from boat disasters in Nigeria, where water transportation is common in remote areas due to convenience and the absence of good roads, AP said. The report said boat accidents are often linked to overloaded and poorly maintained vessels, many operating without carrying life jackets.
AP also pointed to other recent disasters, saying at least 30 passengers were killed in September when their boat capsized, and that 25 others died in similar circumstances in July.
Yobe Gov. Mai Mala Buni offered condolences to the families affected and directed that all necessary medical and logistical support be provided immediately to victims receiving treatment, according to a government update.