Following a report of a boat mishap, a team of officials from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), led by the Territorial Coordinator, conducted an assessment of the incident alongside the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency in Kalgwai Community, Auyo Local Government Area (LGA).
The unfortunate incident occurred at approximately 7:00 pm on July 7, 2024, when members of the Kalgwai community were returning from the nearby Gujungu Village market. Eyewitnesses reported that the boat, overloaded with twenty passengers and their luggage, capsized due to the excessive load and the haste of the passengers to get home.
Local divers quickly responded to the emergency and managed to rescue eighteen passengers, consisting of fifteen males and three females. Despite their best efforts, two females tragically drowned in the incident. The survivors were immediately taken to Auyo General Hospital for medical attention.
NEMA officials, in collaboration with the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency, have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. Preliminary findings suggest that overloading and possible negligence in safety protocols were significant factors in the mishap. Authorities are urging boat operators and passengers to adhere to safety guidelines to prevent future occurrences.
The Territorial Coordinator of NEMA emphasized the need for increased safety measures and awareness among the local communities. He stated, “This tragic incident underscores the importance of adhering to safety regulations. We will work closely with local authorities to ensure that such avoidable accidents do not happen again.”
The Jigawa State government has also expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and pledged to support the survivors and their families during this difficult time. The government assured the public that measures would be put in place to enhance waterway safety and prevent such tragedies in the future.
