3 farmers drown as boat capsizes in Borno

A tragic boat accident claimed the lives of three farmers in Kubo ward, Shani Local Government Area of Borno State on Monday.

According to a report from the North East office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the farmers were transporting yams from a riverbank when their overloaded boat capsized.

Out of the 20 farmers on board, 17 were rescued alive, while three unfortunately drowned.

The NEMA office, while quoting the Chairman of the local government, Abdu Labaki, said, “Honourable Chairman of Shani LGA said the incident occurred in the early hours of today, 25th August, 2025, involving 20 farmers in their effort to be conveyed to their farms located over the river site.

“The boat capsized due to overloading. Seventeen people were rescued alive, but 3 died and their bodies were recovered.”

Meanwhile, a resident in the area, Audu Abu, who also confirmed it to PUNCH via a telephone call, said search efforts are still underway to determine if there are still missing persons as of the time of filing this report

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 an unfortunate accident, leaving three people dead.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those affected by this incident, and may Allah grant protection and safety to all.”