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The Yobe State Government has approved a donation of N20 million to victims of the recent boat accident in Garbi town, Nguru Local Government Area of the state.
The donation was announced by the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Idi Gubana, during a condolence visit to the Nguru Emirate Council and families affected by the tragedy.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday in Damaturu by his Press Secretary, Hussaini Mai-Sule.
It was earlier reported that at least 25 people were confirmed dead, while 14 others were initially reported missing, following the accident, which occurred in early January.
The boat, carrying about 52 passengers, including farmers and traders, was travelling from Adiyani town in Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru LGA when it capsized.
Credit: Punch
According to the statement, the deputy governor directed that the donated funds be distributed among injured survivors and the families of those who lost their lives. He also offered prayers for the repose of the deceased and for strength for their families to bear the loss.
Mai-Sule said Gubana further instructed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to embark on training and sensitisation programmes for canoe operators on water safety practices.
He also assured that the state government would procure modern boats and life jackets to improve safety and efficiency in water transportation across the area.
The deputy governor warned boat operators against overloading, describing it as a major cause of boat accidents in the region.
Meanwhile, the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA) has confirmed the casualty figures from the incident. The agency’s Executive Secretary, Dr Mohammed Goje, disclosed that of the 52 passengers on board, mostly farmers and traders, 29 were confirmed dead, 15 were rescued, while eight others remain missing.
Goje added that search and rescue operations are still ongoing, with local divers working under the supervision of the agency.
