Tragedy struck in the Sabon Gida area of Sokoto State on Saturday evening as a boat carrying over 150 suspected bandits capsized, leaving most, if not all, of the occupants feared dead.
According to reports by local journalist Zagazola Makama, the boat, reportedly overloaded with armed men, overturned while attempting to cross a water body. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as passengers struggled to stay afloat.
One resident who witnessed the incident said, “It all happened so quickly. People were screaming and struggling in the water. Many of them could not swim, and they just disappeared beneath the water.”
Another local source added, “The boat was far beyond its capacity. I counted dozens of men on it, and it looked like it was carrying twice as many as it should. No wonder it capsized so suddenly.”
Preliminary reports suggest that the situation turned fatal almost immediately, with little chance of rescue. “By the time anyone could think of helping, the boat was gone, and so were the people. It was heartbreaking to watch,” said a nearby trader.
Security agencies in Sokoto State have yet to release an official statement confirming the fatalities. However, sources at the scene indicated that none of the passengers survived the accident. Rescue efforts are ongoing, and teams have been deployed to recover any bodies from the water.
Community members expressed shock and grief over the incident. A local elder lamented, “It is a sad day for our community. We hear about bandits, but we never imagined such a tragedy could happen here. Our prayers go to the victims, even though they are suspected criminals; they are still human beings.”
The incident has also sparked concern about the movement of armed groups in the region. While Sokoto has not historically experienced the same level of banditry as other northern states, reports of armed group activity have increased in recent months, heightening tensions among residents.
Authorities have urged caution in navigating waterways, especially during the rainy season when strong currents make river crossings hazardous. A local government official stated, “We are investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident. Measures will be taken to prevent a recurrence, and we call on residents to prioritize safety over risky movements.”
The Sokoto State government is expected to issue an official statement soon, confirming the number of casualties and outlining any security measures being implemented in the aftermath of the tragedy.