More than 50 people, mostly children, died after a boat capsized in Sokoto state
The vessel was reportedly overloaded and around 40 bodies had been recovered
Rescue teams continued searching for passengers feared missing as the cause was investigated
More than 50 people, mostly children, died after an overloaded boat capsized in Nigeria's northwestern Sokoto state, according to Reuters.
The vessel was carrying passengers when it overturned on a waterway in the state. Around 40 bodies had been recovered by Thursday, while search and rescue operations continued for others feared missing.
Overloaded Boat
Authorities said the boat was believed to have been carrying more passengers than it could safely accommodate when it capsized.
Most of those on board were children, according to officials cited by Reuters. The incident highlights the dangers posed by overcrowded passenger boats on waterways in parts of Nigeria, where safety standards and access to life jackets remain concerns.
The exact cause of the capsizing was still being investigated, while authorities continued rescue and recovery efforts.
Rescue Efforts
Local officials and emergency teams were searching the waterway for missing passengers and recovering bodies as relatives waited for information.
The incident is among a series of deadly boat accidents in Nigeria in recent years, often linked to overloading, poor safety practices, strong currents and inadequate safety equipment.
Authorities have repeatedly urged boat operators and passengers to observe safety rules, but fatal accidents remain common on inland waterways.
The latest tragedy has again raised concerns about passenger safety and enforcement of regulations governing commercial boat operations in Nigeria.
