BY ABDULKADIR M. LAWAN, JANUARY 04, 2026 | 11:50 AM
A canoe accident has claimed the lives of at least 25 people in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State, with 13 others rescued alive and 14 still missing.
The incident occurred on Saturday at around 7:48 pm, when a canoe carrying 52 passengers capsized while traveling from Adiyani town in Jigawa State's Guri Local Government Area to Garbi town in Nguru LGA, Yobe State.
According to Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), the victims were returning from Adiyani town, where they were engaged in fishing, farming, and other local business activities, when the canoe overturned mid-journey.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with security agencies, emergency responders, and local community volunteers working tirelessly to locate the missing passengers and recover bodies.
YOSEMA search and rescue team from Bade and Nguru have been dispatched to support the efforts.
Yobe State Governor, Hon Mai Mala Buni, has expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and directed that all necessary medical and logistical support be provided to victims receiving treatment.
The governor also emphasized the need for expedited referral services to save lives.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.