Oluwafunbi Bello 
Yobe State Deputy Governor, Idi Gubana
YOBE, Nigeria – The Yobe State Government releases N20 million in emergency relief for survivors and bereaved families following a boat accident that kills 29 people in Garbi town, Nguru Local Government Area.
The disclosure comes in a statement issued on Wednesday by Hussain Mai-Sule, Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor.
Deputy Governor Idi Gubana announced the relief fund during a condolence visit to the Nguru Emirate Council and affected families, describing the January 3 incident as “deeply tragic.”
“We pray to Allah to grant eternal rest to the deceased and comfort their families,” Gubana says.
He directs the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to intensify safety awareness programmes for canoe operators and announces plans to procure modern boats and life jackets to reduce future risks.
Gubana warns against overloading, identifying it as the leading cause of water transport accidents in the area.
YOSEMA Executive Secretary, Dr Mohammed Goje, confirms that the boat carries 52 passengers—mostly farmers and traders—from Adiyani in Jigawa State when it capsizes on River Yobe. “Twenty-nine persons are confirmed dead, 15 rescued and eight still missing,” Goje says, adding that rescue operations continue with local divers.
The tragedy reignites concerns over water transport safety in riverine communities where boats remain vital for commerce and daily movement.
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