Boat carrying eight passengers capsizes in Jigawa, k!lls four

Four passengers have died after a boat carrying eight people capsized at Dudduru Pond in Dutse Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

The incident occurred at about 4pm on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, as the boat was travelling from Kwadige Village to Chai Chai Sabuwa Market, according to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Jigawa State Command.

The NSCDC Public Relations Officer, ASC Badruddeen Tijjani, said preliminary information indicated that strong winds may have caused the boat to capsize while crossing the pond, located about three kilometres from Kwadige Village.

He said four female passengers died in the incident, while the remaining four occupants were rescued by farmers working around the pond, with support from residents of Kwadige and Kuna communities.

The deceased were identified as Hasiya Mu’azu, 13; Hauwa Lawan, 13; Fatima Lawan, 12; and Dawsiyya Lawan, 13.

Tijjani said the remains of the four victims were buried according to Islamic rites.

The State Commandant, CC Muhammad Kabiru Ingawa, commiserated with the families of the deceased and the Kwadige community over the tragedy.

He also urged boat operators and passengers to exercise caution on waterways, particularly during strong winds and adverse weather conditions.

The command further advised residents to avoid travelling by boat during dangerous weather and continue to observe basic water safety measures.