Jalingo, Nigeria — A tragic boat mishap along the River Namnai in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State has claimed the lives of three passengers and resulted in the loss of property worth millions of naira.
The incident occurred around 7:45 p.m. on Friday when a boat ferrying passengers, vehicles, and luggage capsized while crossing the river, following the collapse of the Namnai Bridge in August 2024.
Confirming the incident, Chairman of Gassol LGA, Hon. Abubakar Sadique, and Chairman of the Taraba State Inland Water Transporters, Mr. Jidda
Mayoreniyo, said rescue efforts were underway to retrieve sunken vehicles and belongings.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as drivers and passengers watched helplessly while their property sank. At least four vehicles were submerged, and several rescue workers were seen searching for luggage and attempting to recover the vehicles.
One of the victims, Mallam Abdul Kaifa, recounted his ordeal, noting that it was the second time his vehicle had fallen into the river since the bridge collapse. “Last year on September 17, my vehicle also fell into this water. It cost me over N340,000 to repair it. I haven’t finished paying the debt, and now it’s back in the river,” he lamented in Hausa.
The bodies of the deceased were recovered and prepared for burial, while the incident continues to highlight the dire need for infrastructural intervention in the area.
Residents and travellers have repeatedly called on authorities to restore the collapsed Namnai Bridge to avert further tragedies and ease the burden on commuters.
By Makinde oyinkansola| July 26, 2025
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