By Our Correspondent
Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umaru Namadi has expressed profound grief over the tragic boat capsize that claimed the lives of several residents of Malamawar ‘Yan Dutse village in Ringim Local Government Area.
The unfortunate incident occurred at about 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, 19 July 2026, when a boat conveying farmers returning from their farms capsized on the Ringim River, which flows into the Hadejia River.
According to an eyewitness and local boat operator, Hamisu, the accident resulted from overloading, causing the boat to overturn suddenly and throw its passengers into the river, stated that six boat operators who were nearby immediately jumped into the river to rescue the victims. “Through their courageous efforts, 24 people were rescued alive, comprising 23 females and one male.
“Nearly seven hours of intensive search and rescue operations, the bodies of five children were recovered. Search teams, however, continued efforts to locate 12 persons who remained missing at the time of filing this report.” He added.
During his visit to the scene, Governor Umaru Namadi conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Ringim Emirate, the people of Malamawar ‘Yan Dutse and the families of those who lost their loved ones, described the incident as a painful tragedy and prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased.
The Governor thereafter led the funeral prayers for the victims at Malamawar Yan Dutse village.
Responding to appeals by community members for the construction of a bridge to prevent future boat accident, Governor Namadi assured them that the Jigawa State Government would construct the bridge, thereby directed the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Gambo Barau to deploy engineers to the site without delay to conduct the necessary technical assessments and commence the process for the project.
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of Ringim Local Government, Hon. Badamasi Garba Dabi, commended Governor Namadi for his swift response, noting that the Governor suspended his official engagements to personally visit the community, sympathize with the bereaved families, participate in the funeral rites, and announce immediate government intervention.
Signed:
Aliyu Safiyanu Jahun,
Information Officer
Ringim Local Government
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