Five teenagers have died after a boat capsized on the Nafada River in Nafada Local Government Area of Gombe State on Saturday.
The victims; Najib Ibrahim (18), Hauwa’u Jidda Adamu Siddi Dogal (15), Ummati Haruna Baraya (16), Umaira Gidado (16), and Amina Jaliya (15), were traveling to a village market when the boat overturned, throwing all passengers into the river.
Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the incident as “heartbreaking and painful,” especially given the victims’ young ages. In a statement by his spokesperson, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governor condoled with the bereaved families and the entire Nafada community, praying for the repose of the deceased.
He urged strict adherence to water transport safety rules and directed the State Emergency Management Agency and the Nafada council to support affected families and improve safety awareness in riverine areas.
