A heartbreaking boat accident on Monday claimed the lives of three farmers in Kubo Ward, Shani Local Government Area of Borno State.
The tragedy struck as the farmers were transporting yams from a riverbank when their overloaded canoe capsized, according to the North-East office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Out of the 20 farmers aboard, 17 were rescued alive, but sadly, three drowned.
The Chairman of Shani LGA, Abdu Labaki, confirmed the incident, explaining that the boat overturned in the wee hours of August 25, 2025, while the farmers were traveling to their farmlands across the river.
“The boat capsized due to overloading. Seventeen people were rescued alive, but three died, and their bodies were recovered”, Labaki stated.
Local resident Audu Abu, who also confirmed the accident, shared that the canoe may have been carrying as many as 27 people at the time of the crash.
Search efforts are still ongoing to determine if there are additional missing persons.
Abu expressed his condolences, saying: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those affected by this incident, and may Allah grant protection and safety to all.”
The incident has left the community shaken, highlighting the risks posed by overloading and the challenges of navigating the river, especially amid recent flooding in the region.
Local authorities are urging farmers to adhere to safety guidelines to avoid further tragedies.