Scores dead as boat carrying market-bound passengers capsizes in Niger

A tragic boat accident occurred on Saturday morning, July 26, on the Shiroro Dam in Niger State, leaving several passengers feared dead and prompting an urgent rescue operation.

The incident took place around 10 a.m. between the Sherin Waterway and Kwata Market in the Zumba area of Shiroro Local Government Area. According to eyewitness reports, the ill-fated vessel was transporting passengers from Shaita Village to a weekly market when it capsized.

Rescue teams, including local divers and emergency responders, swiftly launched efforts to recover victims and assist survivors. While the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed, fears are high that many lives may have been lost.

The boat is said to belong to one Mallam iMusa of Shaita Village in Muya Local Government Area, and the exact number of people on board at the time remains unknown.

Following the incident, a joint rescue operation involving the Marine Police and local divers was launched to search for survivors and recover any victims.

As of press time, authorities had yet to confirm the number of casualties, while efforts to locate those missing were still underway.

The Niger State Police Command has urged boat operators to comply with all maritime safety guidelines, emphasizing the importance of life jackets and proper loading procedures.