Three farmers lost their lives on Monday when a boat carrying them and others capsized at the river bank in Kubo Ward, Shani Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to an electronic message obtained from the North-East office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the boat was conveying 20 farmers when the incident occurred. Out of the passengers, 17 were rescued.
Quoting the Chairman of Shani LGA, Abdu Labaki, NEMA said: “The Chairman of Shani LGA said the incident occurred in the early hours of today, Monday, August 25, 2025, involving 20 farmers in their effort to be conveyed to their farms located on the river site. The boat capsized due to overloading. Seventeen people were rescued, but three died and their bodies were recovered.”
A local resident, Audu Abu, also confirmed the incident in a telephone call, noting that search efforts were ongoing to ascertain if there were still missing persons.
Abu added: “The tragic canoe crash occurred at River Kubo in Shani Local Government Area, specifically in Kubo Ward. The canoe, which was carrying over 27 people, met with an unfortunate accident, leaving three people dead. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those affected by this incident, and may Allah grant protection and safety to all.”
The incident comes amid recent heavy flooding across Borno State, which has destroyed homes and displaced many residents.
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