Five people have died in a canoe accident in Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

The accident happened around noon on Thursday when the canoe capsized while crossing the Gamoda River near Nahuce village.

The canoe was carrying twenty passengers. According to a statement from the Jigawa State Police Command, a team of police officers, local divers, and Good Samaritans quickly responded to the distress call.

“Regretfully, five of the passengers were found dead,” said Lawan Shiisu Adam, the spokesperson for the Jigawa State Police.

The victims have been identified as Abdurra’uf Mohd, 15; Suleman Ali, 20; Shafiu Mohd, 25; Ado Nafance, 75; and Alasan Mohd, 16, all from Taura LGA. Efforts are still underway to rescue the remaining passengers.

Jigawa State Commissioner of Police, Amad Abdullahi, expressed his condolences to the families of the victims. “We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the immediate families of the deceased and pray for the departed souls to find eternal peace,” he said.

This tragic incident highlights the risks associated with water transportation, especially in rural areas where such methods are common.

The police have promised to work with local authorities to improve safety measures and prevent similar accidents in the future.