By Trendsetter Tribune 
A celebratory journey turned into a scene of mourning on Monday, February 16, 2026, as a boat carrying over 100 wedding guests capsized in the Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The accident has claimed the lives of at least 14 people, including 13 women and one child.
The tragedy occurred near Gumbi village as the victims were returning from Gwarzo village in the Ngaski LGA, where they had just finished accompanying a bride to her new husband’s home.
Details of the Incident
- Location: Gumbi village, Gumbi Ward, Yauri LGA.
- Circumstances: The vessel was transporting guests back to their home village after a wedding ceremony.
- The Capsize: Shortly after departure, the boat overturned, throwing more than 100 passengers into the water.
- Casualties: While many were rescued by local divers and emergency responders, 14 individuals were confirmed dead.
- Burial: All victims were buried on Monday afternoon in accordance with Islamic rites.
Government Response
Governor Nasir Idris expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a painful loss for the entire state. Due to the urgency of the funeral, the Governor was represented at the funeral prayers by Abubakar Shu’aibu, the Chairman of Yauri Local Government.
“I appeal to you to accept this in good faith, bearing in mind that nothing happens without the knowledge of our Creator. God does what He wants at the time He wants, and nobody has the right to question Him.” — Gov. Nasir Idris (via Representative)
The Governor also prayed for the families to find strength and for the souls of the deceased to be granted Jannatul Firdaus (Paradise).
Ongoing Safety Concerns
This tragedy is the latest in a series of fatal boat accidents on Nigeria’s northern waterways, which have faced heightened scrutiny in early 2026:
- Overloading: Initial reports suggest the boat may have been carrying more passengers than its capacity allowed.
- Lack of Regulation: In January 2026, similar accidents in Yobe and Jigawa states led to calls for the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to enforce stricter life-jacket mandates and night-travel bans.
- Recent Precedent: Just last week, rescue operations concluded in Kogi State following a separate mishap where 20 bodies were recovered.