A tragic incident occurred in Jigawa State when a canoe carrying 15 children capsized, resulting in the death of six individuals and leaving two children still missing. The accident happened around 8:15 PM on Sunday, July 27, 2025, as the children were returning from a farm in Jejin Gunka to Zangwan Maje village in Taura Local Government Area.
According to a 9am News report, SP Shi’isu Adam, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the Jigawa State Command, confirmed the incident in a statement released on Tuesday. He attributed the cause of the accident to flooding, strong winds, and overloading.
Seven Children Rescued, Six Confirmed Dead
Swift intervention by the police and local divers led to the successful rescue of seven children, who are currently safe. The rescued include:
- Rukayya Abdullahi, 9
- Ibrahim Garba, 12
- Fatima Yusuf, 10
- Suwaiba Yahaya, 20
- Rukayya Saleh, 18
- Jawahira Samaila, 10
- Sakina Sule, 11
Unfortunately, six bodies were recovered and confirmed dead by a medical officer. The deceased victims are:
- Hare Abdullahi, 12
- Halima Ma’azu, 12
- Nasiba Yahya, 15
- Saima Yusuf, 25
- Amina Sule, 11
- Saiya Abdullahi, 18
Efforts to locate the two remaining missing children are ongoing, with police personnel and local divers continuing the search.
Canoe Operator Flees Scene
SP Adam also disclosed that the canoe operator fled immediately after the accident. Authorities have launched a manhunt for his arrest, with the intention to prosecute him for negligence once found.
“This is a deeply saddening event. We are doing everything possible to find the two missing children and ensure justice for the victims and their families,” the police spokesman stated.
This tragic event has sparked concern among stakeholders and residents in Jigawa State, particularly regarding the safety of children who rely on water transport in rural communities. Many are now calling on the government to enforce safety regulations, provide life jackets, and invest in proper infrastructure for safer rural travel.
Parents, traditional rulers, and safety experts are urging immediate government intervention to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the search continues, the entire Taura community remains in mourning, and the rest of the country watches with heavy hearts.
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