40 feared dead as boat carrying farmers capsizes in Sokoto
At least 40 people are presumed dead following the capsizing of a boat in Gorau town, located in the Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The vessel, carrying farmers and laborers, sank while crossing a stream en route to their rice farms.
Many of the passengers were children, aged between 10 and 15 years. Eyewitness accounts indicate that more than 70 individuals were aboard when the boat went over shortly after its departure. The village head was among those on board; however, he was rescued.
Local journalist Sharhabilu Yahuza Kiliya, who reported from the scene, stated, “So far, we have recovered about 40 bodies, while six people, including the village head, have been rescued.” The individuals involved were primarily farm owners and seasonal workers engaged in rice harvesting.
According to Kiliya, the canoe capsized shortly after leaving the shore, prompting immediate rescue efforts involving local divers. “Rescue operations are ongoing, with divers searching for missing passengers and recovering bodies,” he added. The casualty count may increase as search efforts continue.
