Yobe State Governor, Hon Mai Mala Buni, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic boat mishap in Nguru Local Government Area that claimed the lives of 25 persons, describing the incident as heartbreaking and a painful loss to families and the entire state.

In a condolence message issued by the director general Press Affairs and Media to the Governor, Alh. Mamman Mohamed on Sunday said Buni received the news of the tragedy with a heavy heart, noting that the incident has plunged many households into grief and left the state in mourning.

"It is with deep sadness that I received the shocking and devastating news of the boat mishap in Nguru Local Government Area, which claimed 25 lives, while several others are still missing," the governor said.

Buni prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and asked Almighty Allah to grant strength and comfort to the bereaved families in this difficult moment expressing hope that ongoing rescue efforts would yield positive results.

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"My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims. I pray that more survivors will be rescued and reunited with their loved ones," he added.

The governor directed the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to provide immediate relief and support to families affected by the tragedy, while ensuring that those rescued receive prompt medical attention.

He further instructed SEMA, in collaboration with the State Fire Service and Nguru Local Government Council, to intensify search and rescue operations to locate those still missing.

The accident reportedly occurred when a canoe conveying about 52 passengers from Adiyani in Jigawa State to Garbi community in Nguru Local Government Area capsized, leading to multiple casualties.

Governor Buni cautioned residents against overloading boats and vehicles, stressing that strict adherence to safety measures is essential to preventing avoidable accidents.