At least four people have lost their lives following a canoe accident at the Yauri town market river bank in Kebbi State, with several others rescued from the waters.
The incident, which occurred earlier this week, was confirmed by Nafiu Nuhu, the Disaster Management Team Leader of the Nigerian Red Cross Society in Yauri. According to Nuhu, the canoe capsized after water flooded into it, causing panic among passengers and leading to the drowning incident.
"Some of the victims were rescued from the submerging accident with the assistance of our members from the Red Cross Society of Nigeria, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and local community members," Nuhu explained.
Coordinated Rescue Efforts
The rescue operation was swiftly mobilized through a collaborative effort between the Red Cross, NIWA officials, and local volunteers. Three bodies were recovered on Tuesday and transported to Hikiya village, located across the Yauri River.
Executive members of the Red Cross led the emergency response, working diligently to provide assistance and search for missing persons. The fourth victim was reportedly found later during the continued search operations.
Water transportation remains a crucial means of movement for many communities in riverine areas of Kebbi State, despite the inherent risks associated with overcrowding and inadequate safety measures on traditional canoes.
This incident highlights the ongoing safety concerns regarding water transportation in Nigeria's inland waterways, particularly in rural communities where regulations may be less strictly enforced.
Local authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident or any measures being taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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