Tragedy struck in Plateau State on Tuesday as a canoe carrying four passengers capsized in the Fajul River, located in Langtang South Local Government Area. The incident occurred around 4 p.m. on September 10 and has left four people feared dead.
According to local sources, the canoe was being paddled by 35-year-old Nankpak Danladi when it overturned mid-river while ferrying passengers to Wase, a neighbouring community. All four passengers onboard drowned, and their identities have not yet been confirmed.
“The canoe capsized while they were crossing to Wase. The paddler, Danladi, managed to survive, but all four passengers drowned,” said a local resident who spoke on condition of anonymity.
In response to the tragic event, security operatives in Langtang South quickly mobilised local divers to carry out a search-and-rescue operation. As of the time of filing this report, no bodies had been recovered, though the search efforts are ongoing.
Residents of the area have expressed concern over the safety of water transport on the Fajul River, especially during the rainy season when water levels rise and currents become stronger. They called on local authorities to improve safety measures and provide life jackets for transport operators and passengers.
The Chairman of Langtang South LGA has yet to issue an official statement, but local officials have confirmed that emergency responders are on ground assisting with the rescue efforts.
Incidents like this are not uncommon in rural riverine communities across Nigeria, where canoes remain the main means of transport due to poor road infrastructure. Unfortunately, many of these boats operate without basic safety precautions such as life vests or trained personnel.
As the search continues, families of the missing passengers remain hopeful for recovery, even as fears grow that the victims may not be found alive.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid risky travel by water, especially during heavy rainfall, and pledged to review safety protocols in the area to prevent future occurrences.
