Seven people have died in a canoe accident in Shagari LGA, Sokoto State. Officials urge stricter waterway safety after the tragic incident in Kambama Ward

[dropcap]S[/dropcap]okoto canoe accident has claimed the lives of seven villagers travelling from Gidan Husaini to Gwargawu in Kambama Ward, Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

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The tragic incident occurred on Monday as the victims attempted to cross a local waterway.

Local authorities confirmed on Tuesday that all the deceased were from Gidan Husaini village. Their identities have yet to be released, but the community has been left in deep mourning.

Representing the Sokoto State Government, the Commissioner for Finance, Muhammadu Jabbi Shagari, visited the grieving families in Gidan Husaini.

Leading the condolence delegation, he described the accident as a “monumental loss” not only for Shagari LGA but for the entire state.

“This is a great tragedy. We mourn not just as a local community, but as a state. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families during this difficult time,” Shagari said.

He offered prayers for the repose of the deceased, asking Almighty Allah to forgive their shortcomings and grant them eternal peace in Jannatul Firdaus.

The commissioner used the opportunity to urge residents and travellers to take safety precautions seriously, especially when using water transport.

“Passengers must wear lifejackets. It’s a simple measure, yet it often means the difference between life and death,” he cautioned.

He further warned canoe and boat operators to avoid overloading, a frequent cause of accidents on rural waterways.

“Safety must always come first. No journey is worth a life lost due to negligence or preventable risks,” he stressed.

Grieving relatives expressed gratitude for the government’s visit and support, thanking the commissioner for his compassion and solidarity during their time of sorrow.

The Sokoto canoe accident has once again brought attention to the precarious state of waterway transport in many rural parts of Nigeria, where canoes remain a lifeline for daily movement in the absence of roads and bridges.

Advocates are now calling for stricter regulation, regular safety inspections, and the provision of life-saving equipment across riverine communities.