A woman and her three children have been confirmed dead in a tragic canoe accident that occurred between Dikwa and Mafa Local Government Area in Borno State. This incident follows the severe flooding that has impacted parts of Maiduguri, which has spread into the Mafa and Dikwa communities over the past four days.
The Borno State Police Command expressed its condolences to the families of the victims who lost their lives in the unfortunate accident. In a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Daso, it was reported that a distress call was received at the Dikwa Divisional Police headquarters regarding a canoe accident on September 23, 2024, at approximately 3:30 PM in the Bakassi community.
The canoe, which was carrying passengers, submerged in floodwaters, resulting in the loss of four female lives. The deceased have been identified as Ya Mallum Shettima, an adult female from Marte LGA; Maimuna Akura, 10 years old; Umira Alhaji Bulama, 6 years old; and Yagana Bulama Kawu, 5 months old.
The victims were taken to Dikwa General Hospital, where their deaths were confirmed by a medical doctor. Their bodies have since been released to their families for burial according to Islamic rites.
In light of this tragedy, Commissioner of Police, CP ML Yusufu, expressed heartfelt condolences and urged the public, especially those in flood-affected areas, to exercise caution. He emphasized the importance of reporting any emergencies or distress to the police. This incident comes just days after the Police Command issued a public warning about the dangers posed by the ongoing floods in Dikwa and Mafa.