Consultant picture. Picture credit score: AFP
At the very least 40 individuals have drowned in a ship accident on a river in northwestern Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu mentioned on Sunday (September 15, 2024).
The accident occurred in Zamfara state as farmers had been making an attempt to succeed in their land, Tinubu mentioned in a press release. The president pledged help to the victims and ordered emergency businesses to evaluate the incident.
Zamfara police spokesman Yazid Abubakar advised media that the accident occurred on Saturday (September 15, 2024) and that 5 individuals had been rescued however 40 are nonetheless lacking. It was not instantly clear how many individuals had been on the boat when it sank.
The boat was primarily carrying farmers who use the crossing frequently to promote produce at markets and locals say they’re typically overloaded.
Zamfara state is stricken by armed teams that kidnap for ransom, steal cattle and interact in unlawful mining.
Boating accidents are widespread in distant communities in Nigeria attributable to overloaded and poorly maintained boats.
In August, greater than 20 individuals died in a ship accident on a river in southern Nigeria after the engine exploded.
Most boats don’t carry life jackets or have satisfactory security measures, locals say.
Printed – September 15, 2024 10:10 pm IST
