Boat accident in Kebbi State kills wedding guests in Yauri Local Government Area.
No fewer than 14 people, mostly women, have lost their lives in a tragic boat accident in Kebbi State following a wedding ceremony in Yauri Local Government Area.
The incident occurred at Gumbi village, where victims were returning from a wedding ceremony after escorting a bride to her husband’s home in Gwarzo village, Ngaski Local Government Area. The boat carrying them reportedly capsized while crossing the river.
Authorities confirmed that the boat was overloaded, with more than 100 passengers on board at the time of the accident.
Reacting to the tragedy, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, popularly known as Kauran Gwandu, described the incident as a painful and heartbreaking loss.
The governor, who was represented at the funeral prayers by the Yauri Local Government Chairman, Abubakar Shu’aibu, commiserated with the bereaved families, the Yauri Emirate, and residents of the area.
“I appeal to you to accept this incident in good faith, bearing in mind that nothing happens without the knowledge of our Creator,” the governor said.
“God does what He wants at the time He wants, and nobody has the right to question Him.”
Providing further details, Shu’aibu said the boat overturned while conveying passengers back from the wedding ceremony.
“Sadly, 14 people , 13 women and a child lost their lives,” he said.
He confirmed that the deceased were buried according to Islamic rites, adding that prayers were offered for their forgiveness and eternal rest.
“We pray Allah (SWT) to forgive their shortcomings and grant them Jannatul Firdaus. May He also grant the families and the entire Yauri Emirate the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.
The tragedy has once again drawn attention to recurring boat accidents in riverine communities of Kebbi State, where water transportation remains a major means of travel for social and economic activities.
The Kebbi State Government expressed deep sympathy with the affected families and assured residents of its support as the community mourns one of the deadliest boat accidents recorded in the area in recent times.
