Three farmers conveying yam from a river bank in Kubo Ward of Shani local government area of Borno State lost their lives after their boat capsized on Monday.
According to the North-East Zonal Office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), 17 out of the 27 farmers on the boat were rescued alive.
Quoting the Chairman of the local government, Abdu Labaki, NEMA said the accident occurred in the early hours of Monday, 25th August, 2025, while the 27 farmers were making efforts to convey yam to their farms located across the river.
“The boat capsized due to overloading. Seventeen people were rescued alive, but 3 died and their bodies were recovered,” the NEMA Office said.
Meanwhile, a resident of the area, Audu Abu, who also confirmed the incident, said search efforts were underway to locate, and know if there were still missing persons.
Abu said, “The tragic canoe crash occurred at River Kubo in Shani Local Government Area, specifically in Kubo Ward. The canoe, which was carrying over 27 people, met with the unfortunate accident, leaving three persons dead.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those affected by this incident, and may Allah grant protection and safety to all”, he said.