The Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Dauda Lawal, along with the State Executive Council, is deeply saddened by the boat accident that happened on August 29, 2025.
The incident took place between Nasarawar Kifi and Birnin Tudu in Gummi Local Government Area. Many people lost their lives while trying to escape from attacks by bandits.
In a statement from the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Mahmud Mohammed Dantawasa, the Zamfara State Government said it is fully committed to ending bandit attacks and will continue to support the people during this difficult time.
The statement also said that Governor Dauda Lawal has asked security agencies to increase their operations in the area. This is to help stop future attacks and make sure residents in affected communities are safe.
Early reports say the boat was carrying more people than it was meant to and capsized while crossing the river. Many lives were lost. Rescue operations are still going on. Emergency teams are working with local leaders to find missing people and help survivors.
The accident happened on a Friday when around 20 villagers, running away from bandits, tried to cross a river at Nasarawar Kifi using a boat. Sadly, the boat capsized during the journey.
Sources told reporters that the people on the boat, mostly women and children from Danmaga, Tungar Maigunya, and Nasarawar Kifi, rushed to the river looking for safety.
One source said the boat was only meant to carry 16 people. But during its third trip, two more women forced their way onboard, bringing the total number of passengers to 18, which caused the boat to capsize.
A local resident, Mr. Musa Danmaga, said in a phone interview that such accidents happen often in the area and many lives are lost each year.
He asked the government to help the community by providing more boats. He explained that villagers rely on water transport for their farming and business activities.
The village head of Nasarawar Kifi, Mr. Muhammadu Chigari, also confirmed the sad event in a phone call. He said the accident was heartbreaking and unfortunate.
He explained that the accident claimed the lives of 8 housewives, 3 babies, and 4 young people. Local divers are still searching for others who are missing.
Aliyu Shehu, the head of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) office in Sokoto, also confirmed the incident.
He said that NEMA, together with the Zamfara State Emergency Management Agency (ZEMA), would visit the area. They will check how many people were involved and provide relief items to help the affected families.
The Zamfara State Government has sent its heartfelt condolences to the families of those who died. The government is also working closely with NEMA and ZEMA to make sure families receive the help and support they need.
