Local officials in Zamfara State, northwest Nigeria, reported that at least 64 people are feared dead after a boat carrying 70 farmers capsized while crossing a river near Gummi town.
The wooden boat, transporting farmers to their fields, overturned early on Saturday morning. A rescue operation was launched, and after three hours, six survivors were found.
Aminu Nuhu Falale, a local administrator overseeing the rescue, noted this was the second such accident in the area.
The overcrowded boats, with only two available for over 900 farmers who cross the river daily, are a growing concern. Search efforts continue in hopes of finding more survivors.
Zamfara State, which has been struggling with criminal gangs vying for control of its mineral wealth, is now facing additional hardships due to severe flooding from recent heavy rains.
Local authorities reported that over 10,000 residents were displaced by floods just two weeks ago.
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