Kathmandu— A boat capsized on a river in northwestern Nigeria’s Sokoto state on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of dozens of people, according to officials and local residents. The vessel was reportedly carrying workers traveling to farms in Gorau town when it overturned near the Goronyo local government area. Rescue efforts continued Thursday as authorities worked to confirm the total number of fatalities following a disaster that has impacted nearly every household in the community.

Recovery Efforts Underway

Authorities have begun rescue operations, with Dahir Kure, spokesman for the National Emergency Management Agency in Sokoto state, confirming their presence at the scene. “We are now at the scene of the boat accident and have begun rescue work,” he said. However, officials have yet to release an official death toll as they continue collecting information about the incident.

Witness Accounts Detail Scale of Loss

A Reuters news agency witness reported seeing 50 bodies – many wrapped in mats and traditional cloth – laid out in the forecourt of a mosque in Gorau, awaiting burial. Ibrahim Musa, a former councillor in Gorau, stated that at least 46 bodies had already been buried, with five more recently recovered from the river. Resident Samaila Garba shared the personal tragedy of losing his 13-year-old granddaughter, Jamila Usman, in the accident.

Community Devastated by Tragedy

The impact of the capsizing extends throughout the local community, with Aminu Dan Hajiya noting that nearly every household has been affected. He expressed relief at not being on board the ill-fated vessel, as he regularly uses the same waterway to reach his farm. The incident highlights the dangers faced by those who rely on river transport during the rainy season when many women and children travel to farms for work.

The search for additional victims continues, and authorities are expected to provide a more comprehensive death toll once rescue operations have concluded.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.