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Introduction
A tragic inland maritime disaster unfolded on September 2, 2025, in Nigeria’s Niger State when an overloaded ferry capsized on the Malale River. The vessel, carrying over one hundred passengers bound for a condolence visit in Dugga village, struck a submerged tree stump near the Gausawa community and overturned. The accident has left at least 60 people dead and dozens more missing, underscoring persistent safety concerns on Nigeria’s waterways.
Details of the Incident
The Voyage and Collision:
- The ferry departed from Tungan Sule village on the morning of September 2, carrying men, women, and children traveling for a condolence visit.
- While navigating the Malale River, the vessel struck a submerged tree stump near the Gausawa community, causing it to overturn rapidly.
- The sudden capsizing left many passengers trapped beneath the waterline with little chance of escape.
Rescue and Casualties:
- Emergency responders recovered 31 bodies from the river by the evening of September 2.
- Roughly 50 individuals were rescued alive, though several were reported in critical condition.
- The chairman of Borgu Local Government, Abdullahi Baba Ara, later confirmed the death toll had risen to at least 60.
- Ten survivors remain in serious condition, receiving urgent medical care.
Underlying Causes and Safety Concerns:
- The ferry was reportedly overloaded well beyond its safe passenger capacity.
- Accidents of this kind are frequent in Nigeria due to:
- Poor vessel maintenance
- Overloading and lack of enforcement of safety limits
- Absence of adequate life jackets and safety equipment
- The Malale River region, like much of Nigeria’s inland waterways, has long been prone to similar tragedies, reflecting systemic gaps in maritime regulation and safety culture.
Community and Government Response:
- The ill-fated voyage was part of a community condolence visit, compounding grief as families lost multiple members traveling together.
- Local officials have pledged continued search efforts to recover the missing.
- Calls are mounting for stricter oversight of ferry operations and enforcement of passenger limits to prevent repeat tragedies.