Gummi, Zamfara State — A devastating boat accident in Gummi Local Government Area, Zamfara State, has resulted in the tragic loss of 40 lives, the Zamfara State Government confirmed on Sunday.
The boat, which was carrying over 40 passengers, capsized in the Bakin Kasuwa River, located in the Uban Dawaki community. The incident was reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, which highlighted the severity of the disaster.
According to Sulaiman Idris, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Publicity, the state governor has described the accident as a “monumental disaster.”
The governor’s office has immediately mobilized the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to undertake rescue operations and recover the deceased.
“We received the tragic report of a boat accident in Bakin Kasuwa River in Uban Dawaki ward, Gummi Local Government Area, resulting in the loss of over 40 lives,” Idris stated.
He added that the governor has directed SEMA to assess the extent of the accident and to provide urgent assistance to the affected families.
In response to the disaster, the governor has also instructed the Commissioner for Humanitarian and Relief Matters to ensure that immediate relief materials are provided to the victims and their families. This directive is aimed at alleviating the suffering of those affected by the tragic event.
The governor has expressed profound grief over the loss and has extended his condolences to the families of the victims. He also assured the public of the state government’s commitment to preventing such incidents in the future.
“Governor Lawal prays for the souls of the departed victims, grieved with their families, and assured of the state government’s commitment to prevent such occurrences in the future,” Idris said.
This tragic event comes on the heels of another recent disaster in the same Local Government Area, where flooding caused extensive damage.
Over 2,000 houses, numerous farmlands, and farm produce valued at millions of naira were destroyed, compounding the community’s distress.
The Zamfara State Government has called for solidarity and support as it works to address the immediate needs of the affected families and to prevent future tragedies.
The incident has drawn widespread attention and condolences, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by communities in the region.
As rescue operations continue, local authorities and emergency services are focused on recovering any remaining individuals and providing support to those impacted by this devastating accident.
The state government’s swift response aims to mitigate the impact of the disaster and support the affected families during this difficult time.
The boat accident in Gummi is a somber reminder of the risks associated with water transportation in the region and underscores the need for enhanced safety measures and emergency preparedness.
