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15 Zamfara Villagers Die in Boat Accident While Fleeing Bandits’ Attack |
15 villagers die in a Zamfara boat accident while fleeing bandit attacks. Learn how insecurity forced the tragedy, rescue efforts, and government response.
Tragedy in Zamfara as Villagers Escape Bandit Violence
At least 15 villagers in Zamfara State lost their lives in a devastating boat accident on Friday, August 29, 2025. The incident occurred in Gummi Local Government Area, when residents attempted to escape a bandit attack by crossing a river in a canoe.
According to eyewitnesses, the villagers—mainly from Danmaga, Tungar Maigunya, Nasarawar Kifi, and nearby communities in Birnin Tudu Ward—overcrowded a single canoe in desperation, leading to the fatal accident.
How the Zamfara Boat Accident Happened
Eyewitness Malam Bashiru Gago Yan Kifi explained that panic spread as news of advancing gunmen reached the communities.
- The only available canoe, meant to carry 16 passengers, was overloaded during multiple rescue trips.
- Two women reportedly jumped aboard after the canoe had already reached capacity.
- The canoe capsized, plunging many into the river.
Local volunteers immediately launched search and rescue operations.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
By the end of the day, 12 bodies were recovered. An additional three were found the following morning, raising the confirmed death toll to 15.
The victims included:
- 8 women
- 3 infants
- 4 youths
The deceased were buried in a mass grave, with prayers led by Liman Yahaya. Authorities continue searching for three villagers still missing.
Community Reactions to the Zamfara Tragedy
The village head of Nasarawar Kifi, Alhaji Muhammadu Chigari, described the accident as a “double tragedy”, noting that the community was already under siege from bandits.
The Zamfara State Government, through a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Hon. Mahmud Dantawasa, expressed condolences and assured that urgent steps are being taken to support the victims’ families.
For updates on government security responses, you can visit the official Nigerian Police Force portal or follow the Daily Trust report that first covered the tragedy.
Banditry and Security Challenges in Northern Nigeria
This heartbreaking incident highlights the worsening banditry crisis in Zamfara and Northern Nigeria. Thousands of residents have been displaced, with rural communities relying on unsafe escape routes such as rivers and forests.
Efforts by the Nigerian military and other security agencies are ongoing, but attacks continue to affect farming, trade, and daily life. You can read more about Nigeria’s security challenges on the Channels TV News platform.
The Zamfara boat accident is not just a tale of an overcrowded canoe—it is a stark reminder of how insecurity in Northern Nigeria forces innocent villagers into desperate situations. As the search for the missing continues, there are renewed calls for stronger security measures and better protection for vulnerable communities.
Until the banditry crisis is fully addressed, tragedies like this risk repeating, further devastating already fragile communities.
