Goronyo Boat Tragedy: Overloading Suspected as Search Continues for Missing Passengers

A tragic boat mishap has left a community in deep mourning after an overloaded vessel capsized on Sunday, August 17, 2025, in the Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The accident, which occurred on the river near Kojiyo village, has resulted in the confirmed rescue of 25 passengers, while search and rescue operations are ongoing for 25 others who remain missing.

According to a statement from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the boat was carrying over 50 passengers, many of whom were traders heading to the weekly Goronyo Market when it overturned. Preliminary investigations by the Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and other local officials point to overloading as the likely cause of the disaster. Eyewitnesses reported that the vessel was not only filled with people but also carried a significant amount of goods, including motorcycles.

Following the incident, both the federal and state emergency agencies swiftly mobilized a coordinated rescue effort. The Director-General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, stated that the agency's Sokoto operations office immediately deployed a response team to the scene. They are working in close collaboration with the Sokoto State Government, local authorities, and volunteer divers from the community.

The rescue operation has been challenging, partly due to the strong currents from the nearby Goronyo Dam. In a significant move to assist the search, the Goronyo Dam management has temporarily closed the dam for two days, a measure that is expected to make it easier for divers to access the affected area. The Sokoto State Government has also deployed its response teams and has provided financial support to the affected families.

The Sokoto State Government and SEMA have used this unfortunate event to renew calls for greater adherence to safety regulations. They have urged boat operators to avoid overloading their vessels and for all passengers to wear life jackets. Community leaders and families of the victims are appealing for the provision of modern rescue equipment and a stricter enforcement of safety standards to prevent future disasters.

Comments

Thanksgiving: A time to count our blessings and cherish our loved ones

Credit: Megan Watson Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November, marking a time for families and friends to gather and express gratitude for the blessings of the past year. The holiday's origins trace back to the early 17th century, with the most famous celebration occurring in 1621 when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people shared a harvest feast. However, it wasn't until 1863, during the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday, aiming to unify the nation amidst turmoil. Over time, Thanksgiving has evolved into a secular celebration characterized by family gatherings, parades like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and football games, while also heralding the beginning of the holiday shopping season with Black Friday following closely behind. Integrating thanksgiving and gratitude into daily life can enhance well-being and foster a positive mindset . Here are several ...

Jake Paul Defeats Mike Tyson in Controversial Showdown

In a clash that captivated the boxing world, Jake Paul emerged victorious over legendary heavyweight Mike Tyson in a highly publicized match held on November 15, 2024 , at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas . The event, broadcasted live on Netflix , attracted a massive audience of 70,000 fans, eager to witness the spectacle of youth versus experience. The fight was marketed as a thrilling encounter, but it ultimately fell flat in terms of excitement. Paul, the 27-year-old social media star turned boxer, claimed a unanimous decision victory with scores of 80-72, 79-73, and 79-73 from the judges. However, many spectators and analysts criticized the bout for lacking intensity and drama. From the opening bell, Paul showcased his speed and agility, employing effective jabs and quick combinations to keep Tyson at bay. The former champion, now 58 years old and fighting for the first time in nearly two decades, struggled to find his footing. Although Tyson managed to land a few body shots ...

Take Control of Your Money: A Guide to Financial Literacy I

Credit: Carlos Muza Financial literacy is the ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills, including personal financial management , budgeting , and investing . It provides the essential foundation for a smart relationship with money and promotes a lifelong journey of learning about the financial aspects of life. Financial literacy encompasses a range of competencies, including understanding financial principles such as earning, saving, investing, and borrowing, as well as comprehending concepts like interest rates, inflation, and financial risk management. Why Financial Literacy Is Important Financial literacy is crucial because it empowers individuals to make informed and effective decisions with their financial resources. Achieving financial literacy is especially important in today’s society due to facets of life such as student loans , mortgages , credit cards , investments , and health insurance . Who Needs Financial Literacy? Anyone who wants to be ...

ADEGOLD

Search This Blog