At least two people have been confirmed dead and many others missing when two boats capsized in Jumbam, Tarmuwa Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The Director-General Press and Media Affairs in Yobe, Mamman Mohammed, said the incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, September 17, when two passenger boats bound for the Babangida weekly market capsized in a flood wave.
Mohammed said the State Governor, Mai Buni, has expressed shock and sorrow over the accident.
“His Excellency the Executive Governor of Yobe state Hon. Mai Mala Buni, has received with deep sorrow the sad and unfortunate news of boat mishaps in Jumbam community of Tarmuwa local government area,” the statement read.
“The sad news reaching the governor indicated that two boats loaded with passengers going to Babangida weekly market, capsized with only two bodies recovered.
“Governor Buni has directed for an intensive search mission with the hope to rescue the victims or their bodies.”
Buni described the accident as sad, unfortunate, devastating, and prayed for safe rescue of the victims.”
He advised travellers on the roads, streams and rivers as well as, residents along water banks to always be cautious.
“The heavy rains and floods usually come from far and unannounced, we should always be on the watch out and avoid dangerous ways,” the statement added.