Tragedy struck in Gombe State on Saturday as five teenagers lost their lives in a boat mishap on the Nafada River.

Tribune Online gathered that the accident occurred when the boat, conveying passengers to a nearby market, capsized mid-river, throwing all occupants into the water.

The deceased victims were identified as Najib Ibrahim (18), Hauwa’u Jidda Adamu Siddi Dogal (15), Ummati Haruna Baraya (16), Umaira Gidado (16), and Amina Jaliya (15).

Reacting to the incident, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing it as “heart-wrenching and painful, especially considering the tender ages of the victims.”

In a statement issued by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe, the Governor said:

“This is a very tragic and unfortunate incident that has cut short the lives of promising young people. My heart goes out to their parents, families, and the entire Nafada community at this difficult time. The loss of these young souls is not only a tragedy to their immediate families but to all of us as a people.”

Governor Inuwa extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the repose of the deceased, asking Almighty Allah to grant them eternal rest and their families the strength to bear the loss.

He also stressed the need for strict adherence to safety standards in water transportation and urged local councils, community leaders, and boat operators to ensure compliance with safety regulations to prevent future occurrences.

The governor further directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Nafada Local Government Council to provide support to the affected families and intensify safety awareness campaigns in riverine communities.

 “On behalf of the government and people of Gombe State, I extend our deepest sympathies to the families of the deceased and pray that Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgives their shortcomings and grants them Jannatul Firdaus,” he added.