At least 40 people are feared dead after a boat carrying farmers to their rice farms capsized in Gorau, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, on Thursday, August 20.
The victims were reportedly crossing a stream to access their farms when the canoe capsized shortly after setting off.
Eyewitnesses said most of those on board were between 10 and 15 years old. The passengers reportedly included farm owners and labourers engaged to harvest rice.
A village head was also on board but was reportedly rescued alongside five others.
“So far, we have recovered about 40 bodies, while six people, including the village head, were rescued,” an eyewitness said.
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According to the eyewitness, rescue operations are still ongoing, with local divers searching the water for those who may still be missing and recovering bodies.
The exact number of passengers on board the ill-fated boat remains unclear, while efforts are underway to determine the full extent of the tragedy.
