At least 14 people have died after a canoe carrying more than 100 passengers capsized on the Yauri River in Kebbi State.
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon in Gumbi ward of Yauri Local Government Area. The passengers were said to be returning from escorting a bride to her matrimonial home in Gwarzo Village, located in Ngaski Local Government Area.
Chairman of Yauri Local Government Area, Abubakar Shuaibu, confirmed the tragedy to journalists on Monday night.
“Unfortunately, fourteen people have lost their lives after the canoe capsized in the river,” he said.
Mr Shuaibu added that the deceased had been buried in accordance with Islamic rites and offered prayers for their forgiveness.
Nasir Idris, Governor of Kebbi State, extended his condolences to the families of the victims, the Emir of Yauri, Muhammad Zayyanu Abdullahi, and the people of the local government area.
Rescue teams were continuing search operations at the time of filing this report amid concerns that the death toll could rise.
