Seven people lost their lives in a tragic canoe accident on Monday while traveling from Gidan Husaini to Gwargawu village in Kambama Ward, Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The victims, all residents of Gidan Husaini, were crossing a local waterway when the canoe capsized.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and raised fresh concerns about water travel safety in rural areas.
Confirming the tragedy on Tuesday, local authorities noted that the identities of the deceased have yet to be made public.
On behalf of the Sokoto State Government, Commissioner for Finance Muhammadu Jabbi Shagari led a delegation to console the bereaved families.
Speaking in Gidan Husaini, he described the loss as deeply painful not just for the Shagari community but for the entire state and the Muslim ummah.
“This is a profound tragedy. We grieve as a community and as a state. Our prayers are with the families affected by this heartbreaking incident,” he said.
The commissioner prayed for the souls of the deceased, asking Allah to grant them forgiveness and eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus.
He also used the occasion to emphasize safety on waterways, urging passengers to wear lifejackets at all times and warning canoe and boat operators against overloading, a practice that significantly increases the risk of accidents.
“No journey is worth a life lost due to avoidable negligence,” Shagari warned.
Grieving families expressed appreciation for the government’s show of support, offering prayers for the commissioner in return for his compassion and presence.
The tragedy has renewed calls for improved safety measures on waterways in Sokoto’s rural areas, where canoes remain a vital mode of transport amid poor infrastructure. There are growing demands for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and the distribution of life-saving equipment.
The state government is expected to engage local stakeholders to address these challenges and prevent further loss of life.
