Search and rescue operations are ongoing after a boat carrying more than 30 passengers reportedly capsized in Malamawar Yan Dutse community, Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
The Director of Planning at the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) confirmed the incident on Monday, saying the boat accident occurred on Sunday, July 19.
He said the passengers, most of whom were female farmers and labourers, were travelling by boat when it capsized. The cause of the accident has yet to be established.
According to the official, emergency responders, supported by residents, have launched an intensive search operation to locate survivors and account for everyone on board.
“All hands are on deck as combined efforts continue to determine the exact number of those rescued or still missing,” he said.
He noted that authorities were yet to establish the number of casualties, stressing that rescue operations remained in progress and that verified information would be released as it became available.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Ringim Local Government Emergency Management Committee, Malam Habibu Dauda, appealed to residents to remain calm and refrain from circulating unverified reports, assuring the public that relevant authorities would provide official updates as the operation continues.
