Three farmers transporting yams from a riverbank in the Kubo ward of the Shani Local Government area of Borno State on Monday lost their lives when their boat capsized as a result of overloading.
An electronic communication acquired by Chronicle NG on Monday evening from the Northeast headquarters of the National Emergency Management Agency stated that out of the 20 farmers on the boat that capsized, 17 were rescued alive.
The NEMA office, while quoting the Chairman of the local government, Abdu Labaki, said, “The Honourable Chairman of Shani LGA said the incident occurred in the early hours of today, 25th August, 2025, involving 20 farmers in their effort to be conveyed to their farms located over the river site.
“The boat capsized due to overloading. Seventeen people were rescued alive, but three died, and their bodies were recovered.”
Meanwhile, a resident in the area, Audu Abu, who also confirmed the incident, said search efforts are still ongoing to determine if there are still missing persons at the time of filing this report.
Abu said, “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.”
