The Zamfara State Government has confirmed the tragic death of 40 individuals following a devastating boat mishap in the Gummi Local Government Area.
The boat, carrying more than 40 passengers, capsized on Sunday in the Bakin Kasuwa River, located in Uban Dawaki ward.
Governor Dauda Lawal described the incident as a “monumental disaster,” expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives.
In a statement released by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Sulaiman Idris, the governor directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to launch immediate rescue and recovery operations.
“The governor has directed SEMA to assess the extent of the accident and provide urgent assistance,” Idris stated.
Governor Lawal also instructed the Commissioner for Humanitarian and Relief Matters to supply relief materials to the victims and their families.
In a show of solidarity, Governor Lawal extended his prayers for the departed souls, assuring the public that steps would be taken to prevent future occurrences.
This tragedy comes shortly after the same Gummi LGA was hit by severe flooding, which destroyed over 2,000 homes and farmlands, causing widespread devastation across the region.