A tragic canoe accident occurred on Monday in Borno State, resulting in the loss of four lives.
The victims, who were all female, included a five-month-old infant, two children, and one adult.
The accident happened around 4 pm on Monday, September 23, 2024, in the Bakassi community between Mafa and Dikwa, along Maiduguri Road.
The canoe they were in was submerged by floodwaters, leading to their unfortunate deaths.
The deceased were identified as Mallum Shettima, Maimuna Akura, Umira Bulama, and Yagana Kawu.
The PPRO said, “A report was received from a Good Samaritan at the Dikwa Divisional Police Headquarters regarding a distressing canoe accident that occurred on Monday, September 23, 2024, at about 1530HRS in the Bakassi community between Mafa and Dikwa, along Maiduguri Road, Borno State.
“The incident involved a canoe carrying passengers that was submerged in floodwaters, leading to the unfortunate loss of four female lives. “The deceased victims, all from Bulabulin Ward, Dikwa, have been identified as Ya Mallum Shettima, an adult female from Marte LGA, Maimuna Akura, 10 years old, Umira Alhaji Bulama, six years old, and Yagana Bulama Kawu, five months old.”
The police were promptly informed of the incident, and officers visited the scene to rescue the victims and transport them to a nearby hospital.
Unfortunately, they were confirmed dead by a medical doctor, and theeir corpses were released to their respective families for burial under Islamic rites.
The authorities have stressed the importance of safety protocols to avoid such calamities, especially during this challenging period of recovery from recent flooding.
Boat operators have been warned to ensure that passengers are provided with safety buoys and life jackets. The police command has reiterated that the safety and security of all residents in Borno State are their top priority.
