Sokoto State River Tragedy: Dozens, Primarily Children, Drown in Boat Capsize

At least 29 people, predominantly women and children, have drowned following a boat capsize on the Shagari River in Nigeria's Sokoto State. The victims were returning from a millet farm in the Gidan Magana area when the vessel overturned due to overcrowding. Authorities in the Shagari local government area confirmed the fatalities.

Reports from local sources indicate the boat was carrying approximately 34 individuals at the time of the incident, far exceeding its capacity. The majority of those on board were young children, according to initial assessments.

Efforts by emergency services and local residents have led to the recovery of some bodies, though the full extent of the tragedy is still being determined. Fatalities from overloaded and poorly maintained vessels are a recurring issue in Nigerian waterways, particularly during the rainy season when rivers swell.