At Least 53 Dead After Overloaded Boat Capsizes In Nigeria’s Sokoto

The death toll from a devastating boat accident in northwestern Nigeria’s Sokoto state has risen to at least 53, with rescuers continuing to search the waterway for additional victims.

The overloaded boat capsized near Gorau, in the Goronyo local government area, on Thursday as passengers were travelling to farms to plant or harvest rice. The vessel was reportedly carrying more than 70 people, although accounts of the exact number on board vary.

The tragedy has particularly shocked the local community because most of the victims were children. An official from Nigeria’s National Inland Waterways Authority said around 40 children’s bodies had been recovered. A local lawmaker said many of those aboard were between 10 and 15 years old and that 16 people had been rescued.

The death toll initially stood at 47, according to Nigerian officials. However, eyewitnesses later reported that more bodies had been recovered, taking the toll to 53. A local resident said 46 victims had already been buried before additional bodies were brought out of the river.

The accident has left families across Gorau mourning, with rescue teams and local divers continuing efforts to locate people who may still be missing.

Boat accidents are a recurring problem on Nigeria’s inland waterways, particularly during the rainy season. Overcrowding, poor maintenance and weak enforcement of safety regulations have frequently been linked to such disasters.

The latest accident has renewed concerns over the safety of passengers using small boats to reach farms and communities that depend on waterways for transportation.

Authorities are continuing to gather information about the accident and the number of people who were aboard the vessel. The death toll could therefore change further as search and recovery operations continue.