By Ibrahim Muhammad
No fewer than 14 persons have lost their lives in a tragic canoe mishap in Kebbi State after a boat carrying more than 100 passengers capsized on the Yauri River.
The Chairman of Yauri Local Government Area, Abubakar Shuaibu, who confirmed the incident to journalists, described the accident as heartbreaking and devastating for the affected communities.
According to him, the tragedy occurred near Gumbi village in Yauri LGA as the passengers were returning from Gwarzo village in Ngaski Local Government Area, where they had escorted a bride to her matrimonial home.
Shuaibu disclosed that 14 deaths have so far been confirmed, while search efforts are ongoing amid fears that several other passengers may still be missing. He added that the deceased have since been laid to rest in line with Islamic rites.
Reacting to the development, Nasir Idris expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended his condolences to the bereaved families, the Emir of Yauri, Muhammad Zayyanu Abdullahi, and the people of the affected communities. The governor prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and called for calm as rescue efforts continue.
