A tragic boat accident in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State has claimed the lives of 13 people. The incident occurred on Saturday when a boat carrying 39 passengers capsized after hitting a submerged tree stump while en route to the Zumba weekly market.
According to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), 26 passengers were rescued, while the 13 deceased — including eight women, three men, and two children — have been buried.
The boat, loaded with both passengers and goods, capsized around 11 a.m. between Kwata and Zumba. NSEMA’s Director General, Abdullahi Baba Arah, confirmed the incident, while the Director of Information, Ibrahim Hussaini, revealed that the boat driver and some survivors were rescued and treated, with one already discharged from the hospital.
Authorities are urging greater caution and improved safety measures on water transport routes across the state.