Jigawa canoe mishap: I thought we were all dead – Survivor recounts near-death experience
Survivors of Jigawa Canoe Accident Recount Harrowing Experiences
Survivors of a recent canoe accident in the Malamawar Yandutse area of Ringim Local Government Area, Jigawa State, have shared their chilling accounts of the tragic event, during which local fishermen and farmers risked their lives to conduct rescue efforts.
The incident occurred when a canoe carrying approximately 40 passengers, primarily women and children, capsized while returning from rice farms. Survivors indicated that the vessel became unstable in the middle of the river, leading to its overturning and casting its occupants into the water.
Seventeen-year-old Anti Haruna, who was rescued while unconscious, recounted the intense moments that followed. “We thought we were all going to die,” she said. “The villagers arrived quickly with their canoes and began pulling people out of the water. Some even jumped in to save children and the elderly. Without their bravery, many more would have perished.”
Fatsima, one of the oldest survivors, described her terrifying experience. “We were coming home from the rice farms when the canoe capsized. I got trapped under the water and thought I would drown,” she said. “When I woke up, I was in the hospital, but the emotional trauma lingered.” She noted that memories of the incident continue to haunt her, complicating her recovery.
Similarly, Sawaida, another survivor, recalled the moment she lost consciousness. “I felt myself dragged under. Everything went dark,” she said. “I regained consciousness at Ringim General Hospital.” She too expressed that the emotional scars remain fresh, citing fear and recurring memories of the event.
Survivors have attributed the accident to the poor condition of the canoe and suspected overloading. They urged both the Jigawa State and federal governments to build a bridge across the river to enhance transportation safety and prevent similar tragedies during the rainy season.
Previously reported by Daily Post, 23 passengers were rescued alive, while 10 bodies were recovered. Search and rescue operations are ongoing as emergency responders and community volunteers work to locate those still missing.
